A vehicle struck a group of pedestrians on Saturday in Modena, a city in northern Italy, resulting in eight injuries, four of which are critical, local authorities reported. The driver, identified as 31-year-old Salim El Koudri, was detained after attempting to flee the scene.

El Koudri, a second-generation Italian born in Bergamo and residing in the Modena province, holds a degree in economics but is currently unemployed. Officials noted that he was previously known to local mental health services for schizoid disorders. Authorities emphasized that while initial assessments suggest possible mental instability, further investigation is needed to confirm his condition.

Law enforcement officials stated there was no immediate evidence that the driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the incident. As part of the ongoing inquiry, police conducted a search of El Koudri’s residence. Authorities also reported that no connections to extremist groups have been identified.

Modena Prefect Fabrizia Triolo confirmed the driver’s mental health history during a press briefing on Saturday evening. The investigation is currently focused on determining whether the incident was deliberate.

Mayor Massimo Mezzetti addressed the situation, noting the absence of fatalities despite the severity of the crash. He described one victim, a woman who was trapped against a shop window, as requiring the amputation of both legs due to her injuries. The mayor confirmed that four of the victims are in critical condition.

Emergency responders treated the injured at local hospitals, and police have maintained a presence at the scene as they continue their investigation. No further details were released on the driver’s motives or the specific circumstances leading to the collision.