On the morning of February 6, 2025, a violent confrontation unfolded at the Viverone Sud service area along the Ivrea-Santhià highway, resulting in serious injuries to two police officers. The incident began when officers intervened as a 26-year-old French man, previously involved in criminal activities, attacked them with a hammer.
The situation escalated dramatically after the accused arrived at the service station following a car accident where he had collided with a guardrail. Rescued by the driver of a van, the man reportedly went on to threaten passengers of another vehicle and attempted to steal their car. This prompted the police intervention.
During the confrontation, the man brandished the hammer he had hidden under his clothing and assaulted both officers, hitting one on the head multiple times. Desperate to defend themselves, one officer drew his weapon and fired, hitting the aggressor in the leg, but also injuring his colleague with a ricochet.
The rapid response of emergency personnel provided immediate aid to all three injured individuals. The officers and the attacker were transported to nearby hospitals via helicopter, highlighting the seriousness of their injuries. One officer sustained significant head trauma from the hammer strike; thank goodness, he was reported awake and stable after treatment. The second officer, who suffered minor injuries, was treated on-site.
The Frenchman was not as fortunate, having undergone surgery to remove the bullet lodged in his leg, with medical professionals estimating his recovery period at about thirty days.
Local authorities reacted with alarm to the incident, expressing grave concerns about the growing violence against police forces. Senate President Ignazio La Russa condemned the attack, stating, "The brutal aggression on the Ivrea-Santhià highway confirms the risks faced daily by law enforcement." He emphasized the need for public awareness about the dangers these individuals encounter regularly.
House President Lorenzo Fontana also extended his wishes for the injured officers’ recovery, asserting, "I follow the updates with concern, thinking of the officers and citizens involved."
The trauma caused by the incident reverberates through both the community and law enforcement circles, igniting dialogue about the increasing threats faced by police. Fabio Conestà, the secretary-general of the Autonomous Police Syndicate, called for focus on justice for this serious act rather than questioning the police response. He emphasized, "Do not investigate the officer who fired; focus on securing justice for this serious act."
Following the attack, the Ivrea-Santhià highway was temporarily closed to allow for investigations and to secure the area for safety. Commuters faced delays as traffic was redirected, creating significant backups for those traveling toward Santhià.
This unsettling event serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with policing and reignites discussions on violence toward those tasked with public safety. The situation, still developing, will undoubtedly prompt firmer policies and protective measures for officers engaged daily in maintaining order and safety.