In one of the most shocking and brutal terrorist attacks we’ve ever seen in Europe, 84 people have been killed and scores more injured after a terrorist drove a truck through crowds celebrating Bastille Day in the French city of Nice.
The city, which just over a fortnight ago played host to a Euros last 16 match between Iceland and England, has been plunged into chaos after an attack that has seen more than twice as many fatalities as the Brussels attacks in March.
Here’s what we know so far.
The current estimated death toll sits at 84
This is according to the Guardian, which has been running live updates. Some 84 are estimated to have been killed, while scores more are said to be injured.
Several children are believed to be among the dead.
#BREAKING: Nice truck attack death toll rises to 84: interior ministry
— AFP news agency (@AFP) July 15, 2016
The attack happened at approximately 10.30pm local time last night
Thousands had gathered along the city’s famous seafront to watch the Bastille Day fireworks.
The truck was driven at high speed through the crowd for almost 2km
A video on the Guardian website shows the truck accelerating into the crowds along the promenade, amid the sound of fireworks.
Viewer discretion is advised.
The attacker was found alone in the vehicle after being shot dead by police
According to sources, he was found with guns and ammunition in the cabin.
#France: lorry drive into a crowd of people celebrating #BastilleDay in #Nice, 30 dead, driver shot by police https://t.co/e1RsLDPQd9
— FRANCE 24 English (@France24_en) July 14, 2016
The attacker was a 31-year-old Franco-Tunisian, according to papers found in the vehicle
He is believed to have been born in Tunisia.
He was known to police, but was not on the terrorist watchlist
His record was for common-law crimes, such as theft and violence, according to sources.
Papers found in vehicle belonging to a 31-year old Franco-Tunisian. ID yet to be confirmed. President Hollande calls it “Islamist terrorism”
— François Picard (@FrancoisF24) July 15, 2016
French president Francois Hollande will extend the state of emergency for three months
The French government had only recently declared its intention not to extend the period beyond the due end-date of July 26.
France extends state of emergency and calls up military reserves after #Nice attack https://t.co/83Nu9c6HR4 pic.twitter.com/F7IEGam2s6
— Bloomberg (@business) July 15, 2016
Users on social media have been paying tribute overnight to the victims of the attacks
You want peace: Create Love. #prayfornice????????????????❤️ https://t.co/mTPTPpsP61 pic.twitter.com/nblxt1bd8V
— Peter Hollens (@PeterHollens) July 15, 2016
Our hearts go out to #Nice. ???????????? #PrayForNice pic.twitter.com/wwKNX2h8lC
— HuffPost UK (@HuffPostUK) July 15, 2016
This Is Absolutely Heartbreaking #PrayForNice pic.twitter.com/uBylxJqtyS
— Oliver Bennett (@_OliverBennett) July 15, 2016