A 35-year-old man intentionally drove his car into pedestrians and cyclists on the French Atlantic island of Oléron on Wednesday, wounding 10 people, four of them in serious condition, officials said. The episode unfolded along the main route between the towns of Dolus d'Oléron and Saint-Pierre d'Oléron, a picturesque stretch frequented by holidaymakers.

The suspect, believed to be a resident of Oléron, reportedly cried out the Arabic phrase translated as "God is the greatest" when police detained him — a statement authorities say can sometimes be associated with Islamist extremists. He was taken into custody on suspicion of attempted murder while investigators work to determine his motive.

Police say the driver deliberately targeted multiple people over several kilometres. Emergency teams transported the injured to nearby hospitals as officers cordoned off the scene and launched a comprehensive investigation.

Local officials described the attack as deeply unsettling for the tight-knit island community. Authorities stressed that inquiries are ongoing to clarify how the events unfolded, evaluate potential risks, and protect both residents and visitors.

The episode adds to concerns about deliberate vehicle attacks in public places and has prompted increased alertness and response measures by law enforcement across France.