The historic Charles University of Prague stands in mourning after a devastating mass shooting that left over a dozen students and staff dead on Tuesday. A lone 42-year-old gunman entered the university’s educational facility, opening fire in classrooms and hallways in an attack that has profoundly impacted the community.

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Around 100 students were gathered for biomedicine and language classes when the sound of gunshots first erupted shortly before 10 am. The gunman worked methodically through three floors of the building carrying two legally owned semi-automatic pistols along with extra ammunition. Survivors described barricading classroom doors using chairs and tables amid scenes of horror and mass panic. Some students attempted to escape through second-story windows, sustaining injuries in their desperation.

Tragically, 15 victims aged 19 through 52 were pronounced dead, primarily from gunshot wounds. Another nine people suffered wounds ranging from minor to critical and were transported swiftly to Prague’s top emergency hospitals. Among the victims were both Czech nationals and international students’ part of the university’s prestigious exchange programs. The campus and surrounding region remain highly secure and on alert for potential secondary attacks.

Outside Charles University’s 17th-century grounds, now lined with flower tributes and candles, a shocked community grieves the loss of so many bright, promising lives. Anna Krejčová was in her second year studying literature and is known for her lyrical poetry exploring identity and nature. Award-winning genetics scholar Jakub Novák specialized in public health at just 31 years old and is committed to environmental justice causes across Eastern Europe. These represent just two of the fantastic students and academic professionals whose gifts were tragically cut short by senseless violence.

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The gunman, who authorities believe had no direct university affiliation, ultimately turned the weapon on himself as specialized police units converged on the troubled scene. His motives remain unclear, though officials indicated a history of apparent mental illness under psychiatric supervision. Given the cross-border impact, an ongoing investigation includes cooperation with international intelligence agencies.

While no words can alleviate the profound suffering of victims’ loved ones, Prague’s universities have provided counselling support and virtual grieving spaces for struggling students. Support has also poured in from universities worldwide devastated by this violation of academia’s sanctuary. As the Charles University community processes this horrific tragedy, they vow to honour victims by continuing their critical work, furthering education and human progress.