Man Charged After Car Hits Pedestrians in Derby City Centre
A man has been formally charged following a distressing incident in Derby city centre, where a car mounted the pavement and struck multiple pedestrians on Saturday evening. The event occurred outside a pub on Friar Gate at approximately 9:30 PM, resulting in seven individuals being transported to hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
Details of the Incident and Charges
According to Derbyshire Police, the vehicle involved was a black Suzuki Swift. Sandhu Ponnachan, a 36-year-old resident from the Alvaston area of Derby, has been charged in connection with the crash. The charges include six counts of grievous bodily harm with intent, one count of attempted grievous bodily harm with intent, one count of dangerous driving, and one count of possession of a bladed article.
Ponnachan was arrested shortly after the incident and has been remanded in custody. He is scheduled to appear at Southern Derbyshire Magistrates' Court on Wednesday. Police noted that Ponnachan is originally from India but has been residing in the UK for several years.
Injuries and Investigation Updates
The seven victims, aged between 36 and 52, sustained injuries described by authorities as not life-threatening. Four of those injured were taken to hospital and have since been discharged, while the others remain under medical care. Initially, counter-terrorism officers were involved in the investigation; however, Derbyshire Police have clarified that this does not indicate the incident is being treated as terrorism-related.
The investigation is ongoing, with updates expected as more details emerge. This breaking news story continues to develop, and further information will be provided as it becomes available.
