Serious Injuries in Deliberate Vehicular Attack on Pedestrians in Oléron
A 35-year-old man intentionally targeted pedestrians and cyclists on Oléron island, seriously injuring two, including a parliamentary aide; investigation ongoing with possible radicalization concerns.
- • A 35-year-old man deliberately hit five pedestrians and cyclists on Oléron island.
- • Two victims, including Emma Vallain, a parliamentary aide, are critically injured.
- • The suspect shouted 'Allahou akbar' during arrest, raising concerns of recent radicalization.
- • The motive remains unclear; the National Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor has not taken over the case yet.
Key details
On November 5, 2025, a deliberate vehicular attack occurred on Oléron island, targeting pedestrians and cyclists over a stretch between Dolus-d'Oléron and Saint-Pierre-d'Oléron. A 35-year-old local man drove his Honda Civic into five individuals, seriously injuring two, including Emma Vallain, a 21-year-old parliamentary aide to National Rally deputy Pascal Markowsky, who was jogging alone near the beach at the time.
The suspect, known locally in La Cotinière for excessive alcohol and drug use and previous minor offenses, was subdued using an electric stun gun and was reported to have shouted "Allahou akbar" during his arrest. This has led to concerns about possible recent radicalization although he is not known to intelligence services for extremism. The motive for the attack remains unclear, and the National Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor’s Office has not yet taken over the investigation, which is currently led by the Poitiers research section and local brigades.
Emma Vallain remains hospitalized in critical condition described as in a state of "absolute emergency." National Assembly members, including Markowsky, have publicly expressed their hope for her speedy recovery and solidarity towards all victims. The suspect is originally from Dordogne but has been living alone on the island.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the event and whether alcohol, drug use, or ideological motives played a role in the attack. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez confirmed the severity of the incident and the number of injured. The attack has drawn significant local and national attention, raising concerns about public safety and radicalization threats on the island.