On Friday morning tragedy struck Prague. A gunman opened fire in a University library, killing 14 people and injuring 25 others. The rampage occurred at Charles University, leaving the city of Prague shaken and its residents grief-stricken.
Authorities were alerted at 10 A.M. local time, when reports of gunshots, explosions, and chaos spread through the University. Witnesses report seeing the shooter approach the library entrance and fire his gun at those inside. A University spokesperson, Emilie Jaskova, reported that “an unknown number of suspects” were involved in the attack, though investigators have identified at least one, a man of Czech origin.
The victims were mostly young adults and college-aged students, one of whom was from the United States. The injured were rushed to local hospitals for treatment. The shooter was killed at the scene.
Prime Minister Andrej Babis condemned the attack, saying: “The government is deeply shocked by the tragedy which happened in the premises of Charles University. We are grieved with sadness over the victims.” Babis also promised that the Czech government “will do everything to protect the safety of our citizens.”
The remains of the dead were taken to a local church for a memorial service, where shock and despair filled the room. Local pastors urged those in attendance to come together in prayer, calling for unity and healing amidst the tragedy.
At this time, the motive of the shooting is unknown and no suspect has been named as of yet. Authorities have asked that anyone who was present during the shooting or who knows anything related to the attack contact the police.
The tragedy in Prague serves as a haunting reminder that gun violence can strike anyone, anywhere. Our thoughts are with those affected by the senseless act of violence.