A 36-year-old Indian national, Sandhu Ponnachan, has been charged with multiple serious offences after a car rammed into pedestrians in Derby city centre, leaving seven people injured.Ponnachan faces charges including six counts of grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent, one count of attempted GBH with intent, dangerous driving, and possession of a bladed article, the BBC reported.Prosecutors said there is sufficient evidence and that pursuing the case is in the public interest. The incident took place around 9:30 pm on March 28 on Friar Gate, a busy street in Derby city centre. Police said a black Suzuki Swift mounted the pavement and struck pedestrians, causing panic in the area. Witnesses reported hearing loud bangs and screams as emergency services rushed to the scene near the Bishop Blaise pub.Seven people, including four men and three women aged between 36 and 52, sustained injuries. However, the injuries were non-life-threatening, and several victims have since been discharged from hospital.
Police response
Ponnachan was initially arrested on suspicion of attempted murder before being formally charged. Police clarified that the incident is not being treated as terrorism and that there is no ongoing threat to the public, although counter-terrorism officers assisted as a precaution.Chief Superintendent Emma Aldred said the incident had “sent shockwaves through the community” and urged the public to avoid speculation that could affect the case. Authorities have also appealed for CCTV, dashcam, or mobile phone footage to aid the investigation.
Who is Sandhu Ponnachan
Ponnachan, originally from India, has been living in Derby’s Alvaston area for several years. He was arrested minutes after the incident and later produced before a magistrates’ court. During the brief hearing, he confirmed his personal details and showed no emotion. He has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear next at Derby Crown Court on April 29.
