A car-ramming and stabbing attack in Modena, Italy, on 17 May 2026 left 21 people injured, with four in critical condition and one woman—identified as a German tourist—requiring the amputation of both legs due to severe injuries. The attacker, 31-year-old Salim El Koudri, was arrested and remains in custody. Authorities have ruled out terrorism, attributing the incident to psychiatric distress, with reports indicating El Koudri had a history of schizoid personality disorder and had previously undergone treatment .
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and President Sergio Mattarella visited victims at hospitals in Baggiovara (Modena) and Bologna, where they met with medical staff and some of those who helped subdue the attacker. Mattarella praised the healthcare workers, while Meloni expressed solidarity with the injured, including a chef who was among the victims . Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani proposed awarding a civil valor medal to civilians who intervened to stop El Koudri .
Investigations confirm that no terrorism charges have been filed, with Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi emphasizing the attacker’s psychiatric background rather than ideological motives. Questions have been raised about whether authorities should have monitored El Koudri more closely after he discontinued treatment . Public demonstrations in Modena drew thousands, with citizens rallying against violence and expressing solidarity with the victims .
> Background: **Driver injures 10 in Modena car attack, authorities rule out terrorism.** — *3 hours ago*
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