Incident Overview
A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following an incident where a car struck multiple pedestrians on one of Derby’s busiest streets.
Derbyshire police reported that seven individuals sustained a “range of serious but not life-threatening injuries” during the event, which occurred on Saturday night.
In an official statement, the police clarified that,
“contrary to online speculation” there had been no deaths.
Details of the Arrest
Authorities indicated that officers stopped a vehicle believed to be involved shortly after the incident, which took place on Friar Gate at approximately 9:30 pm.
The driver, identified as a man in his 30s originally from India, was arrested on multiple charges including attempted murder, causing serious injury through dangerous driving, inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent, and dangerous driving. He was taken into police custody.
Victims and Emergency Response
Emergency medical teams treated the victims at the scene before transporting them to the Royal Derby Hospital and Queen’s Medical Centre in Nottingham.
The police statement emphasized public safety, stating:
“Although we know this will be alarming, we would like to reassure people that we do not believe there is an ongoing risk to the public.”
Public Safety and Road Closures
Police advised that a section of Friar Gate would remain closed for a “considerable time” and urged the public to avoid the area entirely.
Authorities also requested that anyone who witnessed the vehicle driving in Derby at the time of the incident come forward urgently with information.
Reactions from Local Officials
Catherine Atkinson, the Member of Parliament for Derby North, expressed her shock at the event, describing it as a “serious incident.”
On Facebook, she stated:
“My thoughts are with those injured and I’m grateful to our emergency services. Please follow police advice and avoid the area. Anyone who has information should contact them as soon as possible.”
Baggy Shanker, MP for Derby South, extended his sympathies, saying his thoughts were with
“everyone who has been affected and with their loved ones.”
Eyewitness Accounts
A witness who arrived shortly after the incident told the Derby Telegraph that there were “people on the floor” lying in the road.
The witness described the scene as
“such a frightening experience. We came around the corner and there was just people everywhere. We didn’t realise what had happened and then we slowly realised that it was something bad.”
Other witnesses reported seeing debris scattered across the road and described bystanders as crying, with many appearing “shook up” and “panicking.”
Ongoing Investigation
As of Sunday morning, police confirmed that the suspect remained in custody.
In a statement, the force noted:
“The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident are ongoing and we are keeping an open mind as to the motives.”
