A Brutal Attack at the University of Warsaw Leaves One Dead and Another in Critical Condition
On May 7, 2025, a shocking incident unfolded at the University of Warsaw, where a 22-year-old man armed with an ax launched a brutal attack on two university employees, resulting in the death of a porter and leaving a security guard in critical condition.
The attack occurred around 6:40 PM in the Auditorium Maximum on the university's campus located at Krakowskie Przedmieście. The perpetrator, a Polish citizen who is not a resident of Warsaw, targeted a 60-year-old female porter as she was closing the doors of the building. Witnesses reported that the assailant struck the woman with the weapon, leading to her immediate death from severe injuries.
According to police spokesperson Commissioner Rafał Rutkowski, the attacker also assaulted a 39-year-old security guard who attempted to intervene. The security guard sustained critical injuries and was rushed to a local hospital, where he remains under intensive care.
Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic scene. One student recounted, "I saw someone lying on the ground, and there was blood on the wall of the building. I thought someone had bumped their head and wanted to help. But as I approached, the attacker continued to strike the woman with the ax." Another witness noted that the attacker appeared disoriented and may have been under the influence of drugs.
After the attack, the assailant reportedly waited on a bench outside the building and did not attempt to flee. Authorities quickly apprehended him, and he is currently in custody. The university community is in shock, grappling with the implications of such a violent act occurring in what is typically a safe environment.
In light of the tragedy, the rector of the University of Warsaw announced that May 8, 2025, would be observed as a day of mourning, with all classes and events canceled. The university has also extended condolences to the family of the deceased and emphasized support for students affected by the incident.
Dr. Anna Modzelewska, the university's spokesperson, confirmed that the victim was indeed a university employee. She stated, "The victim was our colleague, and we are deeply saddened by this loss. The injured security guard is currently hospitalized, and we are hopeful for his recovery." The university has established a crisis management team to address the aftermath of the attack.
The police have secured surveillance footage from the scene and are conducting an investigation to determine the motives behind the attack. Prosecutor Piotr Antoni Skiba indicated that more information regarding the assailant's motivations would be available in approximately 40 hours as the investigation unfolds.
Speculation among university staff suggests that the attack may have stemmed from personal grievances, although this has not been confirmed. In a statement from the Ministry of Science and Higher Education, officials expressed their deep sorrow over the events and offered their full support to the university community during this difficult time.
President Andrzej Duda also expressed his condolences, stating, "I am deeply moved by the tragedy that occurred at the University of Warsaw. I extend my sympathies to the family of the deceased and the entire academic community." Similarly, Warsaw's Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski called for the harshest punishment for the perpetrator and expressed hope for the recovery of the injured security guard.
As the investigation continues, the university community remains united in mourning and support for those affected by this horrific event. The university has assured students that psychological support services are available for anyone in need.
This incident marks a tragic moment in the history of the University of Warsaw, raising concerns about safety on campus and the underlying issues of violence in society. The community is left to grapple with the aftermath of the attack and the profound loss of a beloved colleague.
In a statement, the rector emphasized, "Today, our university community has been struck by a tremendous tragedy. We mourn the loss of our colleague, and we stand in solidarity with the family and friends of the victim. We are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all our students and staff." The university's administration is working closely with law enforcement to ensure a thorough investigation and to provide necessary support to those impacted.
As more details emerge regarding the motivations behind this violent act, the University of Warsaw and the wider community are left to reflect on the implications of such tragedies and the urgent need for dialogue and action to prevent future occurrences.
