Man charged with attempted murder after Woodthorpe Park Rangers hit-and-run
A 40-year-old man has been charged with five counts of attempted murder after a car mounted a pavement in Nottinghamshire on Saturday, leaving an amateur footballer fighting for his life.
Police confirmed that Duane Anthony is due to appear at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court in connection with the hit-and-run incident in Arnold town centre.
A red Vauxhall Astra reportedly mounted the kerb at Market Place shortly after 13:00 BST, colliding with a group of pedestrians.
The victims included members of Woodthorpe Park Rangers FC, who had been celebrating the end of their season the previous evening.
Club devastated by town centre collision
One squad member remains in hospital with life-threatening injuries following the crash.
The club’s manager and another teammate are recovering from minor injuries sustained during the incident.
Woodthorpe Park Rangers, who compete in the Nottinghamshire Senior League, released a statement requesting privacy as they come to terms with the event.
The amateur side described their critically injured player as a much-loved individual within the dressing room.
“We are all struggling right now and are asking for privacy and respect so we can get our heads around what has happened.”
“This is a heartbreaking and awful time for our club.”
Police confirm multiple driving offences
Alongside the attempted murder charges, the 40-year-old faces allegations of aggravated vehicle taking, driving while disqualified, and driving without valid insurance.
Detective Chief Inspector Ruby Burrow, who is leading the investigation, confirmed that the families of the victims have been updated on the charging decision.
“This was a shocking incident that will have been incredibly distressing for all those involved and anyone who witnessed it happen.”
The senior officer also urged the public to avoid online speculation that could impede the ongoing pursuit of justice.
Authorities have indicated that Counter Terrorism Policing are not treating the collision as a terror-related incident.