Guadeloupe Christmas Tragedy: Celebration Turns to Mourning as Drunk Driver Claims 10 Lives
Guadeloupe Christmas accident: A shocking incident has marred Christmas preparations in the French overseas territory of Guadeloupe. In the city of Sainte-Anne, a car plowed into a crowd on Friday evening, leaving at least 10 people dead and 19 others seriously injured. The tragic event unfolded as locals were finalizing Christmas decorations and lights at Shoelcher Square.
Sudden Tragedy Strikes Christmas Event
According to local media Radio Caraïbes International (RCI), the accident occurred around 7:30 PM in a busy area in front of the town hall and church, where children and families were enjoying the festive atmosphere. A speeding car lost control and crashed directly into the pedestrian zone, instantly injuring a dozen people.
Eyewitnesses reported that the driver did not attempt to flee and stopped at the scene. Within minutes, firefighters, paramedics, and police arrived. The injured were taken to Point-à-Pitre University Hospital and nearby clinics, with several in critical condition.
Prompt Administrative Response and Relief Efforts
The Mayor of Sainte-Anne immediately activated the Crisis Management Unit and instructed authorities to provide assistance to the victims’ families. The municipal council announced public mourning in honor of the deceased. Local authorities urged citizens to avoid unverified information on social media and to rely only on official updates.
Driver Intoxicated, Investigation Reveals
Police investigations revealed that the 45-year-old local driver was heavily intoxicated. Preliminary toxicology reports showed his blood alcohol level was several times above the legal limit, with traces of narcotic substances also detected.
Prefect Alexandre Rochon told the media that there is currently no evidence of terrorism or deliberate attack. The incident is being treated as a “serious road crime,” though investigations are ongoing. Officials also noted that, due to the critical condition of some injured, the death toll could rise.
Comparison to Past Accidents and Safety Concerns
This tragic Guadeloupe Christmas accident recalls last year’s Magdeburg Christmas market accident in Germany, which claimed two lives and left 68 injured. Both incidents raise concerns about crowd safety measures during festive events.
Local residents are now living under a mix of fear and grief. Many families face the holiday season in shock instead of celebration. Authorities assured that the culprit would face strict punishment, and safety protocols will be reviewed to prevent such tragedies in the future.
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