Who Is Sandhu Ponnachan? Here's What We Know About Man Who Allegedly Struck Seven People With Car In Derby

A man has been charged following a violent incident in Derby city centre that left seven people injured. On Saturday evening, a car mounted the pavement on Friar Gate, colliding with pedestrians outside a pub.

The event has shocked the local community and raised questions about the individual involved. The man charged in connection with the event, Sandhu Ponnachan, now faces serious allegations.

The Incident in Derby City Centre

On the evening of Saturday, 28 March, at approximately 9.30pm, a Suzuki Swift mounted the pavement on Friar Gate, injuring seven pedestrians. Witnesses reported hearing loud banging and screams as emergency services arrived swiftly at the scene. The car had driven into crowds outside the Bishop Blaise pub, causing multiple injuries.

Four of the victims, which included three women and one man aged between 36 and 52, have since been discharged from hospital. Though some were seriously injured, all injuries were deemed non-life-threatening and police confirm the injured are receiving ongoing support.

Who Is Sandhu Ponnachan?

Sandhu Ponnachan, aged 36, is the individual charged with the incident. Police arrested him shortly after the event, and he now faces serious allegations. He has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear before Southern Derbyshire Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, 1 April 2024.

Ponnachan is believed to have lived in the East Midlands for several years, having moved from India. He has been charged with six counts of grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent, one count of attempted GBH with intent, dangerous driving, and possession of a bladed article.

Police and Official Response

The police investigation has involved counter-terrorism officers assisting with inquiries. Chief Superintendent Emma Aldred from Derbyshire Police issued a statement expressing concern for those affected. She said, 'This incident has, naturally, sent shockwaves through the community of Derby and the county as a whole. My thoughts, and those of the wider force, remain with the seven injured people, their families, and witnesses at the scene.'

She also urged the public to provide any relevant footage from CCTV, dashcams, or mobile phones to aid the investigation. Police have appealed for cooperation and asked that no unnecessary speculation be circulated, to ensure the judicial process proceeds without interference.

Community and Government Reaction

Derbyshire City Council leader Nadine Peatfield described the incident as 'horrific'. She announced that Friar Gate would be closed to vehicles during the Easter Bank Holiday to reassure residents and visitors. She emphasised the importance of safety and assured the public that measures would be in place to allow people to enjoy the holiday period.

Claire Ward, mayor of the East Midlands, termed the event a 'serious but isolated incident'. She acknowledged the distress caused to witnesses and those injured, stating that efforts would be made to support everyone affected. The city's authorities are committed to restoring confidence and ensuring safety in the aftermath.

Legal Proceedings and Future Steps

The Crown Prosecution Service confirmed that charges against Ponnachan had been authorised following a thorough investigation. Janine McKinny stated, 'The Crown Prosecution Service has decided to prosecute Sandhu Ponnachan with six counts of Section 18 GBH with intent, one count of attempted Section 18 GBH with intent, one count of dangerous driving, and one count of possession of a bladed article.'

The case will now proceed through the courts, with prosecutors confident in the evidence gathered. Authorities continue to evaluate the incident's motives and circumstances, aiming to restore trust within the community.