The Czech Republic is in a state of mourning following a tragic incident at Charles University in Prague, just before Christmas. "It's a shock – none of us would have expected something like this to happen," said a representative from the hospital.
The government declared a day of national mourning for Saturday. Flags will fly at half-mast, and the Christmas tree lights in Prague's Old Town Square will be extinguished. A funeral service is also planned in St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague.
A student wreaked havoc in the main building of the Faculty of Philosophy in Prague's city center on Thursday afternoon. He opened fire, resulting in the death of 14 individuals. Regrettably, the shooter is also confirmed deceased, having likely taken his own life, according to Prague's police chief, Petr Matejcek. All the victims have now been identified. Neither foreigners nor expats were among the deceased. However, two individuals from the United Arab Emirates and a Dutchman sustained injuries.
New revelations suggest the shooter may have been responsible for a double murder a week earlier. A father and his infant daughter were found dead in a wooded area on the outskirts of Prague, with no obvious motive. Authorities reveal that the shooter's firearms matched those used in the double murder.
Eyewitnesses recounted harrowing scenes. "We were in class when suddenly, we heard an unusual sound," a survivor in the hospital shared with the media. A chaotic scene unfolded as students barricaded the door and evacuated, fearing for their lives.
Initial reports reveal no links to terrorism. However, Minister of the Interior Vit Rakusan announced enhanced security measures across the country. This includes a more significant police presence in certain locations, with officers armed with submachine guns.
The Czech Republic's increased weapon ownership further raises concerns. In 2024, 314,039 citizens held a gun license, and firearm registration surged by over 53,000, reaching almost one million.
In response to the university shooting, Charles University set up a fundraising campaign for the injured and the bereaved families. By midday on Friday, more than 13,000 individuals had contributed, raising over 550,000 euros.
Government leaders and politicians from around the world expressed their condolences. In a statement, German Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier expressed shock and sympathy for the victims and their families. US President Joe Biden also expressed his condolences, expressing concern for the senseless loss of life in Prague.
Enrichment Data:
In the days following the university attack, on February 20, 2025, another tragic event took place in Hradec Královie, Czech Republic. Two women were stabbed to death at a shopping center. A 16-year-old local was arrested, and investigations are ongoing to uncover the motive behind the attack. The situation is under control, and there is no public danger.
