An Italian judge validated the pre-trial detention of El Koudri after he drove a car into a crowd in Modena [1].

The decision ensures the suspect remains in custody while investigators determine the motive behind the attack and assess the full extent of the damages. It also prevents the suspect from leaving the country during the legal process.

El Koudri, a 46-year-old investor, was brought before the Giudice per le Indagini Preliminari (GIP) on May 20, 2026 [1]. The judge confirmed the arrest, citing a significant risk that the suspect might flee or repeat the crime [2].

During the proceedings, the judge addressed the intent behind the incident. The GIP said, "Voleva colpire più persone possibili. Rischio di fuga," noting that the suspect wanted to hit as many people as possible and posed a flight risk [1].

Legal teams and investigators have examined whether the attack was the result of a psychiatric crisis. However, the judge noted that the act may not have been driven by mental health issues. The GIP said, "Non è detto che il gesto sia legato ai disturbi psichici" [1].

When responding to the judicial developments, El Koudri said, "È giusto così" [1].

The court's decision to maintain detention reflects the severity of the act and the perceived danger to public safety. The investigation continues to determine if there were further motives, or accomplices involved in the ramming incident [2].

“"Voleva colpire più persone possibili."”

The judicial decision to reject a mental health defense at this stage suggests that the court views the attack as a deliberate act of violence rather than a medical emergency. By validating the detention based on 'risk of reiteration,' the Italian legal system is prioritizing public safety over the suspect's right to pre-trial release, signaling a strict approach to vehicle-ramming incidents in urban centers.