Woman killed in axe attack at Warsaw university
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A university staff member was killed and a guard injured in a shocking axe attack at the University of Warsaw.
A tragic incident shook the University of Warsaw on Wednesday evening when a staff member was fatally attacked with an axe on campus. The horrifying act took place in the Auditorium Maximum, the university’s main lecture hall, sending shockwaves through the academic community and prompting an outpouring of grief and condemnation from officials and the public.
The victim, a 53-year-old female porter, was killed at the scene. According to Polish media reports, the attack occurred just after 6:40 PM local time (16:40 GMT). A 39-year-old university security guard, who rushed to her aid during the assault, was seriously injured.
Police have arrested a 22-year-old Polish man in connection with the attack. Authorities confirmed that he is a third-year law student, not originally from Warsaw. His motive remains unknown, and investigations are ongoing. The local prosecutor’s office is leading the inquiry, as the nation tries to comprehend the senseless violence.
The University of Warsaw released an official statement expressing profound sorrow over the incident. “We express our great sorrow and sympathy to the family and loved ones,” said Rector Alojzy Nowak. “The entire university community is in shock. This is a huge tragedy for all of us.”
As a sign of mourning and respect for the victims, the university cancelled all classes and activities scheduled for Thursday. A formal day of mourning was declared. Additionally, Juwenalia, the university’s annual student music festival set to take place over the weekend, was cancelled as the campus comes to terms with the tragedy.
Justice Minister Adam Bodnar, who happened to be attending a panel discussion in a nearby lecture theatre at the time of the attack, did not witness the incident firsthand but was quickly briefed by his state protection officers. He later commended one of his security officers who responded immediately and assisted the wounded university guard.
“This is a devastating incident,” said Minister Bodnar. “The bravery of those who intervened deserves our utmost respect.”
Warsaw’s Mayor, Rafal Trzaskowski, also responded to the tragic news, calling the event a “macabre crime.” He added, “This brutal attack must be severely punished. Our city grieves with the university and the family of the victim.”
The incident has left both the academic and broader Polish community reeling. The normally peaceful environment of one of Poland’s most prestigious universities has been shattered, leading to discussions on campus safety, mental health, and preventive security measures.
Law enforcement officials are now working to piece together the timeline of events, examine the suspect’s background, and determine what led to this deadly act. The suspect remains in custody as authorities explore charges and consider psychological evaluation as part of the legal process.
Students, faculty, and staff gathered in silence outside the university’s main campus on Thursday, placing flowers and lighting candles in memory of the slain staff member. The university has also made counseling and psychological support available for anyone affected by the tragedy.
The University of Warsaw, founded in 1816 and known as one of Eastern Europe’s top educational institutions, has rarely faced such a violent incident. This unprecedented tragedy has deeply impacted the university’s image and reminded the nation of the unpredictable nature of such acts of violence.
As investigations continue, both the university and the wider community are left with unanswered questions and the heavy task of healing from this traumatic loss.
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