At least eight people were injured on Saturday when a car drove into pedestrians in the centre of the Italian city of Modena, according to police and the city's mayor. The driver, a man in his thirties, was arrested, and authorities confirmed there was no further danger.
Details of the Incident
City mayor Massimo Mezzetti told RaiNews24 that among the injured, four are in a serious condition. The driver is an Italian national born in Bergamo, of North African origin, and a resident of the Modena area.
“It seems (the driver) deliberately drove onto the sidewalk, hitting several people and crashing into a shop window. He then got out of his car and brandished a knife,” said Mezzetti.
A witness reported hearing people fall and throwing himself to the ground as the car approached. The witness suggested the driver appeared under the influence of alcohol or drugs, though this has not been confirmed by authorities.
Response and Reactions
One man who tried to stop the driver suffered minor injuries, the mayor added. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed solidarity with the victims and their families on social media platform X.
“I express my solidarity with those who were injured and their families. What happened today in Modena, where a man ran over several pedestrians and then allegedly stabbed a passerby, is extremely serious. I express my closeness to the injured people and their families. I also extend my thanks to the citizens who bravely intervened to stop the perpetrator and to the law enforcement agencies for their response. I have spoken with the Mayor and remain in constant contact with the authorities to follow the developments of the situation. I trust that the perpetrator will be held fully accountable for his actions,” Meloni posted.
This is a developing story. More details will follow as they become available.
