Six people were stabbed, two of them critically, in a terror attack on Wednesday in the central Israeli city of Hadera. The attack spanned four different locations, with the suspect using a moped to move between sites, assaulting people along the way.

The alleged attacker, an Arab Israeli resident of Umm al-Fahm, was known to police for past criminal activities, according to Hebrew-language media. Armed residents cornered the suspect before police arrived and helped subdue him.

Magen David Adom (MDA) said two of the victims, initially listed as seriously injured, later deteriorated to critical condition. Three others remained in serious condition, while one was moderately injured. Four victims underwent surgery at Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Dr. Jalal Ashkar told local media.

Video footage circulating online shows the moment armed civilians surrounded the attacker, who was wearing a motorbike helmet and jacket. After warning shots were fired, police arrived and restrained the suspect.

Israel Police Chief Daniel Levy acknowledged the growing strain on the police force, stating that, in the current period, they are stretched to the limit in dealing with such incidents.

Hadera Mayor Nir Ben Haim praised the bravery of residents who confronted the attacker, stating, “The heroism of our residents who assisted in the capture of the terrorist proves the importance of vigilance.”

The attack comes amid a wave of violence in Israel, just days after the anniversary of the Hamas October 7 massacre.