Two dead in Hradec Králové stabbing attack at shopping center

Police have detained the attacker in Czechia's eighth-largest city; the motives are as of yet unknown.

Expats.cz Staff

Written by Expats.cz Staff Published on 20.02.2025 11:08:00 (updated on 20.02.2025) Reading time: 1 minute

This is a developing story.

A knife attack in a shopping area on Akademika Bedrny Street in Hradec Králové this morning has left two victims dead, prompting a swift police response that resulted in the detention of the suspect.

The attack happened in the north of the city. Spokeswoman for the Hradec Králové region emergency medical service Lucie Hanušová confirmed that, despite the best efforts of emergency crews, two individuals succumbed to their injuries shortly after the attack.

Police confirm the attacker was 16 years old and a Czech national. The murderer was arrested about 10 minutes after their attack, less than 1 kilometer from the scene, with a 20-centimeter knife found nearby.

In a local Facebook group named "What's Happening in HK?", a member wrote that the incident occurred at an Action store next to OBI.

One woman was stabbed in the sales area, while another was attacked in the back of the store, unconfirmed reports suggest.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the killer's motives. The police have stated that the situation is under control and assured the public that no further threats exist.

While initial reports suggested that the victims included a shop assistant and another individual, police have not yet confirmed these details or whether the attack was random. 

Prime Minister Fiala said on social media: "What happened today is an absolutely incomprehensible and horrific act. I am thinking of the families of the victims and express my sincere condolences to them."

Investigations are ongoing, with law enforcement working to gather more information.

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