Mass Shooting Leaves 14 Dead in Prague University
A horrific mass shooting in downtown Prague has left over 14 people dead and at least 25 injured. The shooter, believed to be a 24-year-old student in the faculty of arts at Charles University, has been confirmed deceased by Czech police.
The shooting began at around 15:00 local time on Thursday, as the gunman reportedly opened fire in the university’s corridors and classrooms, seemingly killing people at random. Police officers sealed off the area and advised people to leave the surrounding streets and stay indoors while the incident unfolded.
While authorities have not named or provided specific details about the victims, they have stated that the incident appears to have no link to international terrorism. They are now working to find a motive behind what is the country’s worst mass shooting.
Czech President Petr Pavel has called for national unity in the wake of the tragedy, revealing his “helpless anger” towards the incident. A national day of mourning is planned for Saturday.
Prague Mayor Bohuslav Svoboda confirmed the university’s philosophy department had been evacuated, and images shared on social media depicted the shooter perched on a balcony holding a rifle with a scope.
In response to the incident, Prime Minister Petr Fiala has cancelled his scheduled events and is en route to Prague, expressing his commitment to addressing the aftermath of the regrettable occurrence.
Additionally, Central Bohemian police officers have announced a search for a young man in connection with the violent death of another man in the region, which may have a connection with the shooting in Prague.
The square remains cordoned off, and the police have advised citizens to follow safety measures as the investigation continues. The Czech Interior Minister assured the public that no additional assailant was present at the scene and urged cooperation with the ongoing police investigation.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the city and the country, with many expressing their condolences to the families of the victims and urging for an immediate response to prevent similar incidents in the future.