Intentional Act Suspected in Paris Café Crash: One Dead, Six Injured

Paris, July 18, 2024 – A tragic incident unfolded in Paris on Wednesday evening when a car crashed into the terrace of the Le Ramus café, resulting in one fatality and six injuries.

The driver, a 24-year-old French national with no prior criminal record, is now under psychiatric evaluation, and authorities are investigating the possibility that the crash was intentional.

The accident occurred at approximately 7:30 PM on Père-Lachaise Avenue, just nine days before the start of the Paris Olympic Games. The impact of the collision left one person dead and six others injured, three critically.

The reclassification of the incident to murder and attempted murder has been confirmed by the prosecutor’s office, following the suspect’s statements during police questioning that suggested the act may have been deliberate.

According to the prosecutor’s office, the driver was initially held in police custody but was later transferred to the psychiatric unit of the Paris Police Prefecture.

Investigations are ongoing into whether there was a passenger in the vehicle and the results of the suspect’s toxicology tests.

The driver, who has no previous criminal convictions, reportedly made statements during interrogation that have raised suspicions about the nature of the crash.

Eyewitnesses describe a scene of chaos as the car barreled into the café terrace. A waiter from a nearby establishment recounted seeing the car speeding and hearing a loud crash as it veered off course.

“The car crossed the one-way street and sped off,” the waiter told Agence France-Presse (AFP) on condition of anonymity. The incident has left the local community in shock.

Eric Pliez, the mayor of the 20th arrondissement, expressed his distress and concern following the crash. “All the injured are customers and people on the terrace,” he said, visibly shaken.

In response to the tragedy, a psychological support unit has been established at the local town hall to assist those affected, particularly the 23 witnesses who are struggling with the traumatic experience.

“This is a safe and peaceful neighborhood, and the accident has deeply affected both residents and shopkeepers,” Pliez added. He assured that support is available for those who need it and that the community is being offered counseling services.

Local resident Brigitte, 70, shared her sentiments, saying, “At Le Ramus, they always have a busy crowd because it’s where families gather after visiting Père Lachaise cemetery. My heart aches for the staff.”

The café, known for its role as a gathering place for mourners, has been left with a visible impact mark on one of its glass doors, and three bouquets of roses have been placed in tribute outside the establishment.

As the investigation continues, Paris remains on high alert, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of public spaces and the profound impact such tragedies have on communities.

 

This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members