A 35-year-old man terrorized the island of Oléron (Charente-Maritime) on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, by deliberately hitting several pedestrians and cyclists over a distance of several kilometers, between the towns of Dolus-d'Oléron and Saint-Pierre-d'Oléron. Authorities confirm that at least five people were injured, some of whom are in critical condition.

Forceful arrest and investigation opened

The driver, a French national, was apprehended shortly after the incident. A source close to the investigation indicated that he shouted "Allahu Akbar" upon his arrest, although the exact motive for his actions remains to be determined. A judicial investigation has been opened for "attempted murder."

A disturbing detail has been revealed by media sources: the individual allegedly attempted to set his vehicle on fire after the impact. Law enforcement quickly extinguished the incipient fire, discovering gas cylinders inside the vehicle.

Profile of the aggressor and the government's position

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez provided details on the suspect's profile. The man, currently in police custody, is described as uncooperative and "known for common law offenses." Notably, the suspect is unknown to intelligence services , and the national anti-terrorism prosecutor's office has "not yet been involved," the minister added.

Political reactions and security context

These events immediately sparked contrasting reactions in the political sphere. Éric Ciotti, president of the Union of the Right for the Republic (UDR), quickly described the events as an "Islamist terrorist act" , urging the State to take firm action.

For his part, Marc Hecker, terrorism expert and deputy director of the French Institute of International Relations (IFRI), recalled that "the terrorist threat in France has fluctuated in recent years, but the country has considerably strengthened its anti-terrorist fight".