A driver struck seven pedestrians in the northern Italian city of Modena before crashing into a shop and allegedly stabbing a bystander, according to local authorities. Emergency services responded quickly, and the injured were taken to nearby hospitals.

Modena Mayor Massimo Mezzetti said the suspect is of North African origin and is currently being questioned. He stated that it appears the man may have been attempting to attack a specific individual, but emphasized that the full circumstances remain under investigation.

An eyewitness reported that the vehicle suddenly accelerated to a very high speed before hitting people, describing a chaotic scene in which victims were thrown into the air. Authorities are continuing to investigate the motive and sequence of events.