Driver in Court After Car Ploughs Into Pedestrians, Injuring Seven

A shocking incident in the heart of Derby has left seven people injured after a car mounted the pavement and struck pedestrians during a busy Saturday night. The incident, which unfolded in one of the city’s most popular nightlife areas, has now moved into the courts, where 36-year-old Sandhu Ponnachan faces multiple serious charges.

The incident occurred at around 9:30 p.m. on Friar Gate, a bustling street lined with bars, restaurants, and late-night venues. Witnesses described scenes of panic and confusion as a vehicle veered off the road and into a crowd, leaving people injured on the ground while bystanders rushed to help. Emergency services quickly descended on the scene, treating victims before transporting them to nearby hospitals.

Seven people, four men and three women aged between 36 and 52 were injured in the crash. While several sustained serious injuries, authorities have confirmed that none are believed to be life-threatening, and some victims have already been discharged from hospital.

Police acted swiftly, arresting the suspect within minutes of the incident. The man has since been charged with multiple offences, including grievous bodily harm with intent, attempted grievous bodily harm, dangerous driving, and possession of a bladed article. He appeared in court shortly after, where proceedings began to establish the facts behind the incident.

There was no application for bail during the hearing, which lasted for about five minutes.