Counter Terrorism Officers Join Investigation After Car Strikes Pedestrians in Derby
Counter terrorism officers are providing support to local police in Derby following a serious incident where a car hit seven pedestrians, leaving them with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. The event occurred on Saturday evening at approximately 9:30 PM on Friar Gate, prompting a swift response from emergency services.
Arrest and Charges
A 36-year-old man from Derby, originally from India but a long-term UK resident, was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder shortly after the incident. He remains in police custody. The suspect faces multiple charges, including causing serious injury through dangerous driving, inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent, and dangerous driving.
Derbyshire Police emphasized that the involvement of counter terrorism officers is standard procedure for incidents of this nature and does not indicate the event is currently being treated as terrorism. In a statement, the force said detectives are leading the investigation with counter terrorism support and are keeping an open mind regarding motives.
Eyewitness Accounts and Public Response
Chief Superintendent Emma Aldred, who leads policing in Derby, praised the public for their assistance, noting that eyewitness information enabled officers to arrest the suspect just seven minutes after the incident in Station Approach. She described the scene as traumatic and extended her best wishes to the injured, their families, and witnesses.
Shop worker Eren Celebi, 23, reported hearing "screaming and shouting" from outside FG Express on Friar Gate. Upon exiting, he saw people lying on the pavement and road, with bystanders attempting to call ambulances and provide first aid. Local resident Mark Lucas, 47, witnessed paramedics aiding two individuals who appeared seriously hurt and were not moving.
Community Impact and Official Statements
The incident has sent shockwaves through the Derby community, with police reassuring the public that there is no wider risk and it is believed to be isolated. A section of Friar Gate was closed until Sunday afternoon as investigations continued.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson expressed her thoughts for those affected during a BBC interview, stating that the police are actively investigating and there is no cause for public alarm. Derby North MP Catherine Atkinson and Derby South MP Baggy Shanker both shared messages of support on social media, urging people to follow police advice and avoid the area.
Investigation Details and Appeals
Police have released details of the suspect's alleged route, indicating the black Suzuki Swift drove from Friar Gate towards Ashbourne Road, then through Bridge Street, Lodge Lane, Five Lamps, Garden Street, Duffield Road, and St Alkmund's Way before being stopped at Station Approach. The visibly damaged vehicle was secured by authorities.
Detectives are appealing for anyone with footage of the incident, including dashcam recordings, to come forward. Information can be provided to Derbyshire Police online or by calling 101, quoting incident 1131 of March 28. Anonymous tips can be given via Crimestoppers.
The Home Secretary is being kept updated on the situation as the investigation progresses, with police promising further updates to the public as soon as possible.
