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Prague University Shooting: 14 Dead and 25 Injured in Shocking Attack

14 dead and 25 injured in Prague shooting (Photo: Reuters)

A horrifying incident unfolded at Charles University’s Faculty of Arts in Prague, leaving 14 people dead and 25 others injured. The assailant, a 24-year-old student named David Kozak, carried out the attack on Thursday, shocking the nation and raising concerns about campus safety. Here is everything known so far about this tragic event.

What Happened at Prague University?

On December 21, a deadly attack took place at Charles University in Prague. The Faculty of Arts building on Jan Palach Square became the scene of a mass shooting, resulting in 14 fatalities and 25 injuries. Initial reports suggested 15 dead and 25 injured, but authorities have clarified the numbers while warning that the death toll may still rise. The shooting occurred at approximately 3:00 PM local time.

Videos of the shooting surfaced on social media, showing people desperately jumping from ledges to escape the attacker. Other videos captured the panic and chaos as people fled in terror.

Who Was the Gunman in Prague?

The gunman has been identified as David Kozak, according to a report by The Economic Times. Kozak was a 24-year-old student enrolled in the Institute of World History at Charles University’s Faculty of Arts. He hailed from Houstoun, a village located 21 km outside Prague, and was studying Polish history.

Kozak was described as an excellent student with no apparent criminal record. He legally owned multiple firearms and was heavily armed during the attack in the city center. Tragically, Kozak’s father was found dead earlier on the same day, adding another layer of sorrow to the unfolding events.

What Was the Motive Behind the Shooting in Prague?

Authorities in Prague are currently trying to determine the motive behind the attack, as the gunman’s motives remain unclear. Police chief Martin Vondrasek revealed that the assailant was initially sought in a different university building before redirecting his attention to the arts faculty. This choice has raised questions about the specific target.

The gunman had left disturbing messages on social media, expressing thoughts on suicide and mass shootings. Some posts also hinted at potential ties to a previous shooting in Russia. Kozak seemed to draw inspiration from a school shooting in Russia, indicating a troubled background.

Furthermore, after searching Kozak’s home, the police suspect him of being involved in a separate killing of a man and his 2-month-old daughter on December 15. There are also preliminary indications of a potential link to two deaths in a forest near Prague the previous week.

Response and Evacuation During the Rampage

As the shooting unfolded, university staff and students were instructed to barricade themselves in classrooms. The police quickly responded, evacuating the area, attending to the injured, and urging civilians to seek shelter. According to a report by the BBC, an email was sent to university staff advising them to secure themselves within the building. Ambulances were dispatched to provide medical assistance and assist civilians in finding safety.

What Happened to the Gunman?

The police chief informed the media that the gunman had been “eliminated” following the shooting in the capital city. Kozak sustained several injuries, but it remains unclear whether they were self-inflicted or a result of police intervention during an exchange of gunfire. Police chief Vondrasek also stated that there was no evidence of an accomplice being involved in the attack.

Reaction to the Shooting in Prague

Given that gun-related crimes are rare in the Czech Republic, this senseless act of violence has garnered international attention. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed shock over the attack.

Mayor Bohuslav Svoboda conveyed his shock and dismay at the unexpected incident, acknowledging the evolving threats even in traditionally peaceful locations. Interior Minister Vit Rakusan reassured the public that there was no indication of the incident being linked to international terrorism and urged people to follow police directives.

The incident has also sparked discussions on campus safety, security, and mental health awareness, resonating beyond the borders of the Czech Republic. In the days to come, the city of Prague will mourn the lives lost and grapple with the aftermath of this tragic event, just days before the Christmas holidays.

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