Driver leaves multiple people injured after ‘hitting pedestrians’ with car in city centre
A man has been arrested after a car ran over 'multiple pedestrians', leaving seven injured, in Derby city centre on Saturday night (28 March).
It has been reported that several people were injured in the incident, some severely, as ambulance crews treated victims at the scene before being rushed to hospital.
Local police stopped a vehicle which was believed to be involved, shortly after the incident unfolded in Friar Gate at around 9.30pm on Saturday.
The BBC reported that the driver, a man in his 30s, was arrested and placed in police custody.
Advert
Derbyshire Police has asked anyone in Derby to reach out if they have any information on what unfolded last night, as they said there is no further risk to the public.
Following the incident, Friar Gate was completely closed and the public were instructed to avoid the area altogether.
Derbyshire Police said in a statement on Sunday morning: “We can confirm that seven people were injured when a car was driven into pedestrians in a city centre street.
“The car, a black Suzuki Swift, struck a number of people in Friar Gate at about 9.30pm on Saturday March 28.
“Seven people were treated at the scene by ambulance crews and taken to Royal Derby Hospital and Queen’s Medical Centre in Nottingham.
“The seven suffered a range of serious but not life-threatening injuries and we can confirm that, contrary to online speculation, no-one died in the incident.”
They added: “A man in his 30s, who is originally from India, was found a short time after the incident.
“He was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, causing serious injury through dangerous driving, inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent, and dangerous driving. He remains in police custody.
“The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident are ongoing and we are keeping an open mind as to the motives.”
In an initial statement following the incident, Derbyshire Police said: "Our investigation is in its early stages but we want to hear from anyone who saw a black Suzuki Swift being driven in Derby around the time of the incident.
"Friar Gate is completely closed from the junction with Curzon Street/Cheapside up to Ford Street. The road will be closed for a considerable time so please avoid the area completely."
Speaking to the Derby Telegraph, one person at the scene said that they saw 'people on the floor'.
The witness explained: "It was 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."
Catherine Atkinson, MP for Derby North, said in a statement on her Facebook page that she was 'deeply shocked', adding: "My thoughts are with those injured and I'm grateful to our emergency services."
Nadine Peatfield, the Leader of Derby City Council, said in a statement this morning: "I am horrified by the incident in our city centre on Saturday evening, where several pedestrians were injured after being struck by a vehicle.
"My thoughts, and those of the entire city, are with those injured, their families, and everyone who witnessed this distressing event."
She showed her gratitude for the emergency services and Derbyshire Police, further saying that she will 'urge anyone with information to contact the Police immediately to assist with their investigation'.
Joshua Nair