Driver accused of Derby car attack that injured seven people is pictured

Marcus Donaldson
Wed, 01 Apr 2026 18:22:40 +0000

The 36-year-old man, originally from India, who has been charged with multiple serious offences following an alleged car attack that left seven people injured in Derby, has been pictured for the first time.

Sandhu Ponnachan, of Chariot Close in Alvaston, was accused of six counts of grievous bodily harm with intent, a single count of attempted GBH with intent, dangerous driving, and possessing a bladed article.

The accused has resided in Derby for several years after relocating from India.

His charges relate to the incident that occurred over the weekend, when a black Suzuki Swift allegedly struck pedestrians at Friar Gate in Derby city centre.

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Prosecutor Seema Mistry informed the court that the 36-year-old had accepted he was behind the wheel of the vehicle and had driven from his home into the city centre before the alleged collision.

Wearing spectacles, a plain grey T-shirt, grey jogging bottoms, and light blue footwear, the defendant displayed no emotion in the dock.

He spoke solely to confirm his name, address and date of birth during the brief five-minute hearing.

District Judge Jonathan Taaffe told him: "Given the nature of the charges, they can only be dealt with at the Crown Court."

No bail application was made, and the accused was remanded in custody ahead of his appearance at Derby Crown Court on April 29.

The incident occurred at approximately 9.30pm on March 28, near the Bishop Blaise pub on Friar Gate.

Shop owners in the area reported hearing banging and screaming as emergency services descended on the scene.

Seven pedestrians sustained injuries when the vehicle allegedly mounted the pavement.

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The victims included four men and three women, ranging in age from 36 to 52.

All seven were transported to hospital with serious injuries, though police confirmed none were life-threatening.

Four of those hurt have since been released from medical care, with the remaining three continuing their recovery.

In a statement, Chief Superintendent Emma Aldred of Derbyshire Police acknowledged the profound effect the incident has had locally.

"This incident has, naturally, sent shockwaves through the community of Derby and the county as a whole."

The senior officer expressed gratitude to members of the public, partner organisations, local businesses and media outlets for their cooperation during the investigation.

She urged people to refrain from speculation on social media or elsewhere now that charges have been brought.

"I'd ask for the cooperation of the public to allow the judicial process to continue without any speculation online or elsewhere that could impede the pursuit of justice for all those affected," she added.