Prague opens crisis hotline, ramps up police presence after deadly shooting

Following today's mass shooting that claimed at least 15 lives in Prague, the city has established a free crisis hotline at 974 823 158. The hotline will operate around the clock until further notice and is intended for anyone seeking basic information related to today’s events.

Prague Mayor Bohuslav Svoboda has said in a news release that he remains in contact with representatives from emergency response components, including police. The city is also setting up a tent near the site of the incident to provide facilities for police officers and assist in their response efforts.

"I am at a loss for words. All I feel at this moment is sadness. As mayor of Prague, I must respond. And reassure the people of Prague that they are safe. We witnessed a tragedy of unprecedented proportions. It is appalling how many innocent lives have been wasted. I extend my deepest condolences to all the survivors," Svoboda said in a statement.

With the emergency lines facing a major surge in callers today, the city has established its free crisis hotline at 974 823 158. Staff were also secured to provide callers with basic information and, in particular, psychosocial assistance.

"We are ready to offer further assistance to the families and loved ones of victims and those impacted by the tragedy. Our experts from the Intervention Center - Social Services Center Prague - and RIAPS are available to provide crisis intervention and psychological support," said Prague Deputy Mayor Alexander Udženija.

The Prague helpline is also available at 222 580 697, including online chat. Anyone needing psychological help and support can also call the Intervention Center at 222 580 697.

"My sincere condolences to all who have lost loved ones, and I also wish a speedy recovery for the injured recovering in hospital. I thank the security forces for their work on this difficult day. The published hotline is intended to inform the general public about today's tragic event. We ask the public to use it instead of 112 and 158, which are not meant for information about this tragedy," said Prague Deputy Mayor Jana Komrsková.

The city is also establishing facilities for police at the incident site and has ensured a basic food supply. Additionally, Prague contacted the Czech Red Cross, which has its vehicle on site and is assisting in managing the situation.

Currently, there are a greater number of police officers and municipal police on the streets of the metropolis, and this increased presence will apply at least for the duration of the Christmas holidays.

As part of a police intervention, the municipality temporarily closed its buildings near the site to the public this afternoon as a precaution. Within its buildings, the municipality has also adopted additional partial security measures to protect employees and visitors. However, the municipality's operation during office hours will not be affected in any way.