Counter-terror team join car incident inquiry
Counter-Terror Team Join Car Incident Inquiry
Derbyshire Police are investigating a car incident that injured seven people in the city centre, with a suspect arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. A black Suzuki Swift struck pedestrians in Friar Gate around 21:30 GMT on Saturday, prompting a swift response from officers. Counter-terrorism units have been deployed, though the force noted this is a standard procedure for such incidents. Authorities are examining the suspect’s motives but have not yet classified the event as an act of terrorism.
The individual in custody is a 36-year-old Derby resident of Indian origin who has resided in the UK for several years. He faces additional charges of causing serious injury through dangerous driving and inflicting grievous harm with intent. Despite the severity of the collision, police confirmed that no fatalities occurred, refuting online reports of deaths. The incident is currently under review for potential terrorist links, though no immediate threat to the public has been identified.
Witness Accounts and Scene Details
At a press conference held at the site, Ch Supt Emma Aldred described the event as a “terrifying occurrence that left the city in disbelief.” She noted that officers arrived within seconds of the collision and detained the suspect seven minutes later on a bridge leading to Pride Park. The vehicle fled the scene, with Aldred crediting eyewitnesses for enabling the quick response. Footage from a nearby takeaway shop captured the collision and its aftermath, including business owners assisting the injured.
“I ended up coming down with my son and realised it was a big incident,” said Mark Lucas, a local resident near Friar Gate. “People were over the floor, and there were numerous police and ambulances on site. We didn’t know the car had run people over.”
“I didn’t see it exactly happen. I was serving some customers and just heard a lot of screaming and shouting outside,” shared Eren Celebi, a shop worker. “When I left the premises, people were scattered on the pavement and main road, running about and trying to call for help.”
Friar Gate was temporarily closed between Curzon Street/Cheapside and Ford Street, remaining shut until 15:00 BST. The area, known for its lively atmosphere, was eerily quiet on Sunday as police tape cordoned off the site and officers patrolled the area. On Saturday night, the bustling hub of restaurants and bars was transformed into a scene of chaos and concern. Catherine Atkinson, Labour MP for Derby North, arrived at the scene and remarked, “Like many, I remain deeply shocked. You don’t expect this to happen in our city. Everyone is utterly stunned by what has unfolded.”
Forensic teams are still combing through the debris, including scattered clothing and shoes, along Friar Gate. Detectives have urged the public to submit any footage or dashcam recordings of the incident, estimating the car’s path as it traveled toward Ashbourne Road, Bridge Street, and other nearby streets before disappearing into St Alkmund’s Way. The investigation continues, with authorities keeping an open mind about the suspect’s intentions.