Prague University shooting: 14 Dead, 25 injured in Czech tragedy
A pall of mourning descends upon the Czech Republic following a university shooting at Charles University in Prague on Thursday.
Fourteen lives were tragically lost, leaving 25 others injured in the deadliest mass shooting in the nation's history. Flags across the country stand lowered in half-mast, mirroring the profound sadness gripping the community.
Prime Minister Petr Fiala led the nation in a moment of silence for the victims, while the midday bells reverberated across the land in a poignant act of solidarity. Many cities cancelled festivities, including Advent concerts, out of respect for the tragedy.
At the site of the shooting, outside Charles University, thousands gathered to honour the victims. Flowers, toys, and candles adorned the space, creating a heart-wrenching tableau of shared grief. Students, friends, and families huddled together, seeking solace in their collective mourning.
"The horrific experience we have endured, and the ongoing anguish we face, are beyond comprehension," state Senate President Miloš Vystrčil. "Words cannot express the unimaginable suffering of the victims in their final moments, nor the devastating impact on their loved ones and the injured. All we can do now is offer our unwavering support in any way possible, and that is what everyone is striving to achieve."
Raw emotions were palpable as many knelt to light candles or lay flowers, some unable to hold back tears as they embraced each other. While authorities haven't released victim names, the Institute of Music Sciences confirmed the loss of its director in the tragedy. No foreign citizens were among the deceased, though a Dutch citizen and two from the UAE were among the injured.
University professor Sergey Medvedev recounted the harrowing escape, stating, "They forced us to the ground, searched everyone, then escorted us out with hands raised. The sight of blood everywhere, staining the stairs, was truly horrifying."
New details are emerging about the attacker, identified as a student at Charles University. He reportedly travelled to Prague after allegedly killing his father in a nearby village. According to police, the gunman took his own life on the university balcony as officers entered the room. He had no prior criminal record, and investigators believe he acted alone, finding no connection to extremist groups. However, they are investigating a potential link to the fatal shooting of a man and his two-month-old daughter in a Prague park last week.
Czech media reports indicate the attacker received mental health treatment and legally owned 12 weapons, including a semi-automatic rifle and silenced pistols. Police revealed he arrived at the university with a suitcase full of ammunition, exceeding his licence to possess eight weapons, including two rifles.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
