A car struck pedestrians in the city of Modena, Italy, causing injuries to eight individuals, with four in critical condition, confirmed local officials. Although no fatalities were reported, one woman had both legs amputated after being pinned against a shop window during the incident.
The driver, a 31-year-old man with roots in Bergamo and ties to Modena, was apprehended and is currently undergoing questioning at the police station to ascertain if he was impaired or acted intentionally, Mayor Massimo Mezzetti stated. The vehicle veered onto a busy street, where the driver “drove onto the sidewalk, sending several people flying,” before crashing into the storefront.
Mayor Mezzetti disclosed that eight individuals sustained injuries, with four listed in grave condition, receiving medical attention at hospitals in Modena and Bologna, including air transport for the most critical cases. Following the collision, the driver attempted to escape but was thwarted by citizens and subsequently arrested by the police for interrogation at the station.
Eyewitnesses mentioned that the driver brandished a knife but did not harm anyone, leaving investigators to determine the motive behind the incident. Mayor Mezzetti emphasized the gravity of the situation, labeling it as a severe act regardless of intent, with potential implications if deemed intentional.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the event as “extremely serious” in a social media statement, extending support to the victims and their families. Meloni praised the individuals who intervened and law enforcement for their swift response, assuring that the suspect would face full accountability under the law.
Emergency services, including police, carabinieri, and financial police, swiftly mobilized to the scene, securing the area as ambulances attended to the injured on-site.