ALBAWABA- A night of holiday anticipation turned to horror in Sainte-Anne on Friday when a car rammed into crowds preparing for the Christmas festivities, killing more than 15 people and injuring several others, authorities said early Saturday.
The victims, families, volunteers, and children decorating Schoelcher Square were struck, in one of Guadeloupe’s worst mass-casualty events in years.
Witnesses described chaos as a mid-sized sedan accelerated through the packed pedestrian zone opposite the town hall and church, sending bodies flying across rain-soaked pavement. “It was a nightmare, screaming, people running, no one knew where the car would go next,” said vendor Marie-Louise Duval, who was setting up a creole nativity display steps from the impact.
Firefighters and paramedics rushed in, airlifting several critically injured victims to the University Hospital of Pointe-à-Pitre. Others were treated for fractures, head injuries, and deep lacerations at local clinics. Medical officials warned the toll may rise as some remain in critical condition.
The 45-year-old driver, a local resident, stayed at the scene and was arrested immediately. Preliminary toxicology reports indicate alcohol levels well above the legal limit and traces of narcotics. “There is no evidence of terrorism or intentional targeting at this stage,” Prefect Alexandre Rochon said, describing the incident as a grave traffic offense pending further investigation.
Sainte-Anne Mayor Annick Girardy arrived soon after the tragedy, activating a municipal crisis unit to support families with counseling and emergency accommodations. “This was meant to be a night of joy, now it’s a night of unbearable sorrow,” she said, as flags at the town hall were lowered to half-mast. A candlelight vigil is planned for Sunday and is expected to draw island-wide participation.
President Emmanuel Macron offered condolences and pledged federal assistance to victims and their families, as well as enhanced road-safety measures in France’s overseas territories.
