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In a horrifying incident, a lone gunman unleashed a barrage of gunfire in the philosophy department building of Charles University in downtown Prague, resulting in the Czech Republic's worst mass shooting. Police and the city’s rescue service confirmed at least 14 people dead and more than 20 injured.
The assailant, identified as a student at Charles University, also lost his life, adding to the tragic toll. The shooter's name has not been disclosed by authorities.
Czech Interior Minister Vit Rakusan stated that there is no suspicion of a connection to extremist ideologies or groups. Prague Police Chief Martin Vondrasek reported that the gunman, an excellent student with no criminal record, was believed to have killed his father earlier in the day and had intentions of taking his own life.
Further investigations revealed the suspect's potential involvement in another homicide that occurred on December 15, raising concerns about a wider criminal network.
The assailant, armed with several legally owned guns and ample ammunition, carried out a meticulously planned and devastating act. University authorities announced immediate security enhancements across university buildings in response to the tragedy.
The shooting took place in a busy tourist area near the Vltava River in Jan Palach Square, close to Prague’s Old Town. The government moved swiftly to dispel fears of foreign involvement, emphasizing that there is no indication of international terrorism.
Charles University expressed deep condolences for the loss of life, describing the incident as an unprecedented tragedy in the country. The affected building is adjacent to the iconic Jan Palach Square, near the Old Town Square, a popular Christmas market venue.
Eyewitnesses reported chaos and panic, with police evacuating the area and conducting thorough searches for explosives. The nation's leaders, along with international figures, extended their condolences, and the White House conveyed sympathy to the victims' families.
The Czech government convened an emergency session to address the aftermath of the shooting. This incident marks the Czech Republic's worst mass shooting since the 2015 tragedy in Uhersky Brod, where a gunman killed eight before taking his own life.
[Information sourced from AP News]
