Modena: Seven people were injured, four critically, when a speeding driver plowed his car into pedestrians in the northern Italian city of Modena. Another person was stabbed by the driver during his attempt to escape, officials reported.

According to Anadolu Agency, the 31-year-old Italian driver, identified as a citizen of Moroccan origin, drove into Emilia Street in the city center at around 4:30 pm local time, exceeding speeds of 100 kilometers per hour. The vehicle struck several pedestrians before coming to a stop after crashing into a shop window.

The driver allegedly attempted to flee the scene and stabbed an individual during the escape attempt. Passersby managed to stop the suspect, who was later detained by police. Modena Mayor Massimo Mezzetti confirmed the number of injured.

Witnesses recounted to local media that the car was moving at an extremely high speed, with pedestrians being hurled into the air upon impact. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni labeled the incident as 'extremely serious' and extended her support to the injured and their families. She also expressed gratitude to the residents and police officers who acted to subdue the attacker.