A shocking attack occurred on the University of Warsaw campus on the evening of May 7, 2025, leaving one person dead and another seriously injured. The incident happened around 6:40 PM when a 22-year-old Polish man entered the campus and attacked individuals with an axe.
The police confirmed that the attacker, a student from Gdynia, was apprehended shortly after the assault. Tragically, one victim—a female porter working at the Auditorium Maximum building—did not survive. She suffered numerous cuts and chop wounds to her upper and lower extremities, head, and abdomen, leading to her death at the scene.
Another victim, a 39-year-old university security guard who attempted to assist the woman, sustained severe injuries and was transported to the hospital in critical condition with cuts to both hands and the head.
In response to this horrific event, the University of Warsaw declared May 8, 2025, a day of mourning. The university community is grappling with the shock and grief stemming from the brutal attack. Rector Alojzy Z. Nowak expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, stating, "A tragedy has occurred. Our colleague, an employee of the University of Warsaw, was murdered in a brutal manner. The perpetrator has been apprehended. We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the victim."
Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic and horrifying. One witness recounted, "I saw someone lying on the ground, and there was blood on the wall of the building. I thought someone had hit their head and wanted to help. As I approached, the attacker continued to strike the woman with the axe." Another student expressed disbelief, saying, "This is terrifying. The campus is a place where I feel safe, and I never thought another student could attack me or anyone else."
According to reports from Polsat News, a severed head was found on the campus, further highlighting the brutality of the attack. An axe, believed to be the murder weapon, was also discovered at the scene. The police are investigating the incident, and the motives behind the attack remain unclear. Some university staff speculated that the attack might have stemmed from personal issues or disputes.
Following the incident, the State Protection Service (SOP) was involved in the apprehension of the attacker, providing assistance to the university's security personnel. Colonel Bogusław Piórkowski from SOP confirmed that their officers were present on campus and played a role in aiding the victims. He stated, "Hearing the screams, one of our officers ran to the scene and helped those intervening. Our officer is now giving statements. He was not injured."
The University of Warsaw community is now left to mourn the loss of a colleague and seek answers about how such a violent act could occur in a place meant for learning and safety. The attack has raised questions about security measures on campus, with some students demanding better protocols to ensure their safety. Daria Brzezicka, a student and political activist, criticized the lack of security checks at the university, stating, "Anyone can enter UW. There is no verification, no checking of IDs. This is a wake-up call for the rector. Maybe now, beyond counting money, they will ensure safety for students."
As investigations continue, the university and local authorities are focusing on providing support to the affected families and ensuring that such a tragedy does not happen again. The community is coming together to support one another during this difficult time, reflecting on the importance of safety and security in educational environments.
In light of the attack, the university has initiated discussions on enhancing security measures across the campus, aiming to prevent future incidents and restore a sense of safety among students and staff. The university community is united in grief, and many are calling for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack.
The tragic events of May 7 serve as a grim reminder of the vulnerabilities faced in public spaces, even those meant for education and growth. As the University of Warsaw mourns the loss of one of its own, the focus now shifts to healing and ensuring that the campus remains a safe haven for all.
