Man Charged With Grievous Bodily Harm Following Car Ramming Incident In Derby City Centre

Police have brought nine charges against a man accused of driving into a group of people in Derby city centre.

Sandhu Ponnachan, 36, is due to appear in court on Wednesday facing six counts of grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent, one count of attempted GBH with intent, one count of dangerous driving, and one count of possessing a bladed article.

Seven people were injured on Saturday evening when a Suzuki Swift was driven into pedestrians on Friar Gate. Counter-terrorism officers have been assisting Derbyshire Police with the investigation.

Ponnachan, who lives in Alvaston, Derby, and is originally from India, has been remanded in custody ahead of his appearance at Southern Derbyshire Magistrates' Court.

Chief Superintendent Emma Aldred said the incident had "sent shockwaves" through the local community and thanked those who had helped with the investigation.

She added that while the charges mark a significant development, inquiries are ongoing. Police are continuing to appeal for anyone with CCTV, dashcam, or mobile phone footage to come forward.

Aldred also urged the public to avoid speculation, stressing the importance of allowing the judicial process to proceed without interference.

Janine McKinney of the Crown Prosecution Service said prosecutors had determined there is sufficient evidence to bring the case to court and that pursuing the charges is in the public interest.

The Johnson Partnership, Derby