When reflecting on the tragic case of Giulia Cecchettin, Alen Halilovic often thought, “If I were there, I would do everything to save her.” Just two days ago, the 21-year-old from Verona found himself in that very position, intervening to protect a woman from her 41-year-old ex-boyfriend during a brutal attack in Guastalla, near Reggio Emilia. Halilovic, who delivers dairy and fresh produce, witnessed the violent assault and immediately acted to defend the woman, ultimately saving her life. While the woman was hospitalized with serious injuries, Halilovic humbly rejected the label of hero, stating, “I just did what anyone should do.”
Halilovic’s account of the incident reveals both his bravery and quick thinking. As he approached an intersection, he noticed a parked BMW with its doors open and two figures struggling in front of the vehicle. Hearing the woman’s screams, he quickly turned his van around and parked behind a truck for cover. Upon witnessing the attacker, who was towering over the victim, Halilovic felt a rush of shock but quickly overcame his fear. He shouted at the assailant, demanding he let her go, even as the man brandished a bloodied kitchen knife.
Despite the danger, Halilovic bravely confronted the attacker, forcing him to abandon the knife and intervening physically to protect the victim. While he attempted to reason with the man, Halilovic realized he was not responsive, appearing agitated. Just when the situation seemed dire, an ambulance arrived, prompting the assailant to flee the scene. Halilovic stayed with the injured woman, helping to stem her wounds and reassure her until help arrived, all while continuing to downplay his own actions. As he prepared to leave for a delivery, he emphasized the need for community action in times of crisis, a sentiment echoed by many who heard his story.
