Woman loses both legs after car plows into pedestrians in Italian city of modena

A devastating incident in northern Italy left eight people injured after a car plowed into pedestrians in the city of Modena on Saturday, May 16, with one woman undergoing the amputation of both legs following the crash.

The incident occurred in a busy area of Modena, a popular tourist destination, where authorities say a vehicle struck multiple pedestrians, causing severe injuries and widespread panic.

According to city officials, Massimo Mezzetti confirmed that eight people were injured in total, including four individuals who remain in serious condition.

The mayor said one female victim was violently pinned against a storefront window during the impact. She was later taken to the hospital and underwent emergency surgery, resulting in the amputation of both legs due to the severity of her injuries.

Authorities identified the driver as a 31-year-old Italian man who allegedly attempted to flee the scene immediately after the crash. He was stopped by bystanders and police before being detained for questioning.

Officials also said eyewitnesses reported the driver appeared to be holding a knife, though no stabbings were reported in connection with the incident.

Police are currently investigating whether the crash was intentional and whether the driver may have been under the influence at the time.

Mezzetti described the incident as “a very serious act,” adding that if it is determined to have been deliberate, the legal consequences would be even more severe.

Italian authorities, including the national police, are continuing their investigation as officials work to determine the exact circumstances leading up to the tragedy.