Accident – death – Obituary News :

Mass Shooting at Charles University in Prague Leaves 14 Dead and Dozens Injured

On Thursday (Dec 21), a tragic mass shooting took place at Charles University in Prague, Czech Republic, resulting in the loss of 14 innocent lives and leaving over two dozen people injured. The shooter responsible for this horrifying act has been identified as 24-year-old David Kozak, a history student at the university who tragically died during the attack, according to the police.

Who Was David Kozak?

Initial reports reveal that David Kozak resided in a village approximately 20 km outside Prague and was pursuing a master’s degree in Polish history at the university. Prior to this devastating incident, Kozak had no criminal record. However, on the day of the shooting, he left his home, expressing his intention to end his own life, as stated by Police Chief Martin Vondrasek.

Authorities disclosed that Kozak possessed a “huge arsenal of weapons and ammunition,” suggesting premeditation. Moreover, investigations linked him to the prior killing of his father, as well as the fatal shooting of another man and his two-month-old daughter in Prague on December 15.

According to Police Chief Vondrasek, an examination of Kozak’s social media activities revealed that he drew inspiration from a “similar case that happened in Russia,” although further details were not provided. Disturbingly, Kozak had been planning the university shooting using the messaging app Telegram, using it as a platform to document both his life and his sinister schemes.

In one of his posts, as reported by the Telegraph, Kozak chillingly wrote, “I want to do a school shooting and possibly suicide. I always wanted to kill. I thought I would become a maniac in the future.”

Following the rampage, the Czech police surrounded Kozak, prompting him to take his own life. The city of Prague, where such violent crimes are uncommon, is now grappling with shock and fear in the aftermath of this tragic incident. Kozak initiated the attack by opening fire from the fourth floor of the philosophy department building of the university around 15:00 local time (14:00 GMT).

In a desperate attempt to protect themselves, students and staff barricaded themselves in rooms using furniture as Kozak continued his terrifying assault in the classrooms and corridors.

Of the 14 victims, the identities of 13 have been confirmed so far. Among the wounded, three individuals are foreigners, hailing from the United Arab Emirates and the Netherlands.

In light of this horrendous event, President Petr Pavel has urged the public to approach the tragedy with sensitivity and cautioned against spreading misinformation or launching political attacks.

As authorities continue their investigation into the motive behind this devastating attack, the Czech government has declared Saturday a national day of mourning.

(With inputs from agencies)

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