Terror in Nice as 77 killed in Bastille Day attack

A police car is parked near the scene where ack drove through a crowd of revellers who'd gathered to watch the fireworks in the French resort city of Nice.

What happened?

• An attack in Nice has killed 77 people and injured 100. A truck ploughed into a crowd celebrating Bastille Day on Promenade des Anglais around 10pm Thursday (French time). The man behind wheel of truck fired shots into the crowd. He was then shot by police.

• The Mayor of Nice, Christian Estrosi, said the truck was loaded with arms and grenades.

• Reports from Nice say a 31-year-old Tunisian man was driving the truck. No further details are available.

• In Paris, a truck laden with fireworks exploded next to the Eiffel Tower. Paris police have confirmed this was not terror-related.

What is happening now?

• French soldiers and police have secured the area in Nice. Residents are urged to stay inside.

How do I know if family members/friends are safe?

• There are 882 New Zealanders are registered as being in France. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade has sent a message encouraging them to get in touch with family in New Zealand to allay fears.

• Anyone with ongoing concerns is being encouraged to contact the Ministry on (04) 439 8000 if calling from within New Zealand or +64 4 439 8000 if calling from outside New Zealand.

• There is also an option on Facebook for anyone in the area to mark themselves as safe but people in Nice have said many phone lines are blocked because so many people are trying to call. Wi-Fi is slow.

Who committed the attack?

• It is unclear who is behind the attack. The driver is yet to be officially identified. There has been widespread speculation it was an act of terrorism.