By Our Correspondent

National News – Eight people were injured, four of them seriously, after a man drove a speeding car into pedestrians in the northern Italian city of Modena on Saturday afternoon.

Authorities said the suspect, identified as a man in his 30s, was captured by passers-by shortly after the incident and handed over to police.

The attack happened around 4:30 pm local time in the busy city centre, causing panic among shoppers and residents.

Witnesses said the vehicle suddenly mounted the pavement at high speed before crashing into several people.

One woman reportedly suffered severe leg injuries after being trapped beneath the vehicle.

Emergency responders rushed the injured victims to nearby hospitals while police secured the area and launched an investigation into the motive behind the attack.

According to officials, the driver allegedly exited the vehicle after the crash and threatened bystanders with a knife.

A man who attempted to stop him sustained minor injuries before other civilians intervened and restrained the suspect until officers arrived.

Local authorities praised the quick action of residents, saying their bravery prevented further harm.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described the incident as “extremely serious,” while Modena Mayor Massimo Mezzetti said investigators were working to determine whether the act was deliberate.

The mayor noted that the suspect was an Italian national originally from Bergamo with North African roots and currently residing in the Modena province.

Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini later identified the suspect on social media as Salim El Koudri.

Security officials have not yet confirmed whether terrorism or mental health issues played any role in the attack.

Investigations remain ongoing as authorities review eyewitness accounts and surveillance footage.