At least 80 people have died in Nice, in the south of France, after a truck ploughed into a crowd of people celebrating Bastille Day, a French national holiday.
The incident, which interrupted a fireworks display for the national celebration, has left in its wake a scene that has been described as “apocalyptic”.
Local media has reported 80 fatalities so far, and a spokesperson for France’s Interior Ministry said “it’s going to be a very high toll”.
According to one witness speaking to CNN, the truck accelerated and aimed directly for people as it slammed into crowd.
Another eyewitness stated that the driver emerged from the truck and opened fire on the crowd before getting back into the driver’s seat and driving to another populated area to continue the shooting.
This tragic event is the latest incident to tear through France, with the coordinatied Paris attacks on 13 November 2015 killing 130 people and injuring over 300. The Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) claimed responsibility.
Although it hasn’t yet been confirmed, there has been speculation that the incident was also a terror attack. Stay tuned for further developments.
How the latest attacks will impact upon tourist numbers to France is up in the air at the moment. The French government has called a state of emergency until 26 July, and Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has advised Aussie travellers to “exercise a high degree of caution in France due to the threat of terrorist attack.”
In a statement issued by Contiki this morning, the youth travel brand reported that all passengers and staff were safe and sound:
Contiki is deeply saddened by the tragic events which have occurred in Nice and our thoughts go out to all those who have been affected. We can confirm that we have six groups staying in the south of France, four of whom are staying in Nice town, and we can report all passengers and staff have been accounted for and are safe.
A spokesperson at The Travel Corporation
Topdeck has also issued a statement. Unfortunately, one of its passengers has reported some minor injuries:
“We are extremely saddened at the tragic event which has unfolded in Nice this morning and our thoughts are with those who have been affected.
As of 02.30 local time, all of our customers are safe and accounted for. Unfortunately one of our customers has reported some minor injuries. They are with Topdeck staff and are currently being tended to in hospital. Our family liaison team has been in direct contact with the injured customer’s family and we are ensuring the best care possible.
The safety and well-being of our customers is our highest priority and we are liaising with local authorities for more information. We will continue to keep everyone updated as we receive more details.”
France has always been a popular destination for Aussie travellers, and a number of Australian tour companies routinely run tours through the south of France. In 2015, France was Australia’s 15th largest inbound market for visitor arrivals, 13th largest market for total visitor spend and 11th for visitor nights.
For those in Australia with concerns for someone in Nice, DFAT advises to try to contact them directly. Failing that, their Consular Emergency Centre can be contacted on 1300 555 135 (see Safety and Security).
KarryOn will report on further trade updates as soon as they come to light.
Source: Smartraveller, News.com.au