Attack in Modena
On May 16, in the center of Modena, Italy, a 31-year-old man deliberately drove his car into pedestrians and cyclists, then attacked people with a knife. The incident left eight individuals injured. Bystanders managed to detain the assailant, later identified as Salim El Koudri, also a 31-year-old resident of Ravarino.
The event unfolded on a Saturday at 4:30 PM. The attacker was driving a gray Citroën C3, with which he struck a woman a second time near a shop on Via Emilia. That woman sustained severe injuries, requiring on-site amputation of her legs. Reports indicate at least one person suffered stab wounds. Among the victims, there were five women and three men. Four of them were hospitalized in extremely critical condition, while three others were resuscitated at the scene.
Background of the Attacker
Salim El Koudri was born in the province of Bergamo, Italy, and is of Moroccan descent. He holds a degree in economics but was not formally employed. His medical records show a history of psychiatric treatment, though he was not under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the attack. The perpetrator had no prior criminal record. Following the incident, authorities conducted searches at his residence.
The Bologna Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor’s Office has been brought in to investigate. Several theories are being examined, including:
- exacerbation of a mental illness
- radicalization
- copycat behavior of terrorist attacks
Modena’s mayor, Massimo Mezzetti, described the event as 'dramatic and extremely serious.'
Italy’s President, Sergio Mattarella, and Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, also expressed concern over the incident.
This attack has raised significant alarm among local authorities and the public, as it occurred in a crowded public space. The ongoing investigation may shed light on the attacker’s motives and any potential links to radicalization or mental health issues, highlighting the importance of analyzing such incidents to prevent future occurrences.