Czech authorities are intensifying efforts to unravel the motive behind the deadliest mass shooting in the country’s history, which unfolded at Charles University in central Prague. The assailant, identified as 24-year-old student David Kozak, opened fire on Thursday, leaving 14 people dead and 25 others injured.
The shooting commenced around 15:00 local time at the Faculty of Arts building, where Kozak indiscriminately fired in corridors and classrooms. Social media footage captured people fleeing from exterior ledges, illustrating the chaos and panic that gripped the university during the rampage.
Police disclosed that the assailant, with no prior criminal record, possessed a “huge arsenal of weapons and ammunition.” Prior to the attack, authorities received a report that Kozak was heading to Prague from a nearby town with suicidal intentions.
Czech President Petr Pavel has urged unity and cautioned against exploiting the tragedy for political purposes or spreading misinformation. Saturday has been declared a national day of mourning to honor the victims, which include the gunman’s father.
Prime Minister Petr Fiala expressed shock at the “horrendous act” and struggled to find words to convey condemnation and the sorrow felt by society. Flags will fly at half-mast on public buildings, and a minute’s silence will be observed at midday on Saturday.
Police evacuated a different university building based on reports that the suspect might attend a lecture there. However, they later responded to the unfolding incident at the Faculty of Arts building. The gunman, suspected in the killing of a young man and his two-month-old daughter in a forest on the outskirts of Prague, was “eliminated” by the police.
Czech authorities are examining unconfirmed information suggesting that the attack may have been inspired by a similar incident in Russia. The assailant had also reportedly posted about the attack on social media.
The shooting at Charles University stands as one of the deadliest mass shootings by a lone gunman in Europe this century. As the nation grapples with this tragedy, citizens and leaders alike mourn, emphasizing the need for unity and resilience in the face of such senseless violence.