A harrowing incident unfolded in the northern Italian city of Modena on Saturday when a speeding vehicle mounted the pavement and struck several pedestrians. The attack, which took place near the city’s historic cathedral, left eight people injured, four of whom remain in serious condition. Among the victims is a woman who reportedly suffered catastrophic injuries, including the loss of both legs. Witness accounts describe the vehicle accelerating suddenly, reaching speeds estimated at 100 km/h before veering into a storefront.

Following the collision, the driver exited the vehicle brandishing a knife. Witnesses report that the suspect attempted to flee the scene and attacked a bystander who had intervened to assist the victims. Despite the assault, the suspect was ultimately subdued by a group of courageous passers-by who managed to restrain him until authorities arrived. The suspect, identified as 31-year-old Salim El Koudri, is an Italian national of Moroccan origin residing in the Modena province.

Local officials have highlighted significant concerns regarding the suspect’s mental health, noting that he had previously been referred to a psychiatric facility in 2022 for schizoid disorders but subsequently evaded further treatment. The Mayor of Modena, Massimo Mezzetti, stated that the driver appeared to target pedestrians deliberately. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described the event as an “extremely serious” matter as the investigation into the motive and circumstances of the attack continues.