A tragic incident unfolded at Prečko Elementary School in Zagreb, Croatia, on December 20, 2024, when a 19-year-old former student launched a knife attack, resulting in the death of a seven-year-old girl and injuries to several others. The attack has sent shockwaves through the community and raised concerns about mental health issues among youth.
Key Takeaways
- A 19-year-old former student attacked a teacher and students at Prečko Elementary School.
- One seven-year-old girl was killed, and several others were injured, including a teacher.
- The attacker has a history of mental health issues and attempted suicide prior to the incident.
- Croatian officials have declared a day of mourning for the victims.
Details Of The Attack
The attack occurred shortly before 10 a.m. local time when the assailant entered a first-grade classroom and began attacking the teacher and students with a knife. Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as children fled the building and emergency services rushed to the scene.
According to police reports, the attacker was subdued within ten minutes of the assault. He subsequently inflicted injuries on himself and attempted to hide in a nearby health center, where police intervened to prevent him from committing suicide.
Victims And Injuries
The Health Minister of Croatia, Irena Hrstic, confirmed that the seven-year-old girl succumbed to her injuries, while five others, including three children and two adults, were hospitalized. The teacher sustained life-threatening injuries and is currently in critical condition. Fortunately, the other injured individuals are reported to be out of danger.
Mental Health Concerns
The attacker has been identified as having a history of mental health issues, with reports indicating he had been admitted to psychiatric care multiple times. His mother expressed concerns about his emotional stability, stating that she had urged doctors not to discharge him due to his condition. This incident has reignited discussions about mental health support for young individuals in Croatia.
Community Response
Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic expressed his horror and sorrow over the tragedy, stating, "We are disgusted, as is the entire Croatian public, by the great tragedy that occurred this morning." He announced that the government would observe a day of mourning in honor of the victims. Local officials, including Zagreb’s mayor, have also visited the site to offer condolences and support to the affected families.
Conclusion
This tragic event marks a rare occurrence of school violence in Croatia, a country where such incidents are uncommon. As the community grapples with the aftermath, there is a pressing need for discussions around mental health resources and preventive measures to ensure the safety of students in educational environments. The loss of a young life has left an indelible mark on the community, prompting calls for action to prevent future tragedies.
Sources
- Croatian Seven-Year-Old Killed, Several Injured in School Knife Attack | Balkan Insight, Balkan Insight.
- Pupil killed in knife attack at Croatia school, thesun.my.
- Croatia stabbing: Girl, 7, killed and several injured in attack at elementary school | CNN, CNN.
- One child dead and several injured after attack at Zagreb school | Croatia Week, Croatia Week.
- Teen stabs 7-year-old girl to death at school in Croatia, Voice of America English News.
