In a shocking incident that has left the University of Warsaw community reeling, a brutal murder occurred on the campus on the evening of May 7, 2025. A 22-year-old law student attacked a university employee with an ax, resulting in one death and another serious injury.
According to reports, the attack took place around 18:40 near the Auditorium Maximum building. The victim, identified as a porter, was fatally wounded when the assailant, armed with an ax, struck her multiple times. Witnesses described the scene as surreal, with one student recalling seeing the woman on the ground and the attacker wielding the weapon.
Dr. Anna Modzelewska, a spokesperson for the university, expressed the institution's shock over the tragedy. "We are shocked by this situation; it is an unprecedented tragedy. A team led by the rector is currently working on the situation, and a meeting with the Minister of Science is scheduled for tomorrow," she stated. Modzelewska confirmed that psychological support is being offered to those affected, with employees from the UW Psychological Support Center present at the scene.
In a statement issued by the university, it was confirmed that May 8, 2025, would be a day of mourning, with all classes and activities canceled to allow for reflection. The university community is encouraged to take this time to grieve and process the tragic event.
During the attack, a 39-year-old security guard attempted to intervene and was seriously injured in the process. He suffered severe lacerations to both hands and his head and was rushed to the hospital in critical condition. The attacker was subdued by university security personnel, who were assisted by a member of the State Protection Service (SOP) who was present on campus for an unrelated event.
Minister of Justice Adam Bodnar was attending a lecture at the university during the incident. He later expressed his condolences on social media, stating, "I am deeply moved by today's horrific incident at the University of Warsaw. I extend my condolences to the family of the deceased and the entire university community. I wish a speedy recovery to the injured guard." Bodnar also acknowledged the quick response of the SOP officer who helped subdue the attacker, highlighting the professionalism and preparedness of the security team.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that the assailant had attempted to enter the building but was stopped by the porter. In a fit of rage, he attacked her, leading to the tragic events that unfolded. The police have confirmed that the perpetrator, a Polish citizen, has been arrested and is currently in custody.
As the investigation unfolds, the Warsaw District Prosecutor's Office is conducting examinations at the scene and has stated that more information will be released on May 8, 2025. The university has also requested that the community respect the memory of the victim and refrain from disseminating audiovisual materials related to the crime.
In light of the tragedy, the University of Warsaw has activated its crisis response team and is providing various forms of support to its community members. The university has set up an emergency phone line and a helpline, along with the Psychological Support Center, which offers free psychological assistance to students and staff.
Dr. Modzelewska reiterated the university's commitment to supporting those in need, stating, "All members of the community can count on the university's support. We have established various channels for psychological assistance, including a helpline that will be operational in the coming days."
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from political leaders across Poland, with many expressing their condolences to the victim's family and the university community. President of Warsaw, Rafał Trzaskowski, stated, "I was shocked by the news of the brutal crime on the campus of the University of Warsaw. My deepest condolences go to the family and loved ones of the murdered individual. I also hope for the full recovery of the injured guard. This brutal attack must be met with severe punishment."
As the university community grapples with this tragedy, the focus will remain on providing support and healing in the aftermath of this horrific event. The attack has not only affected those directly involved but has reverberated throughout the entire university and beyond, highlighting the need for vigilance and safety on campuses nationwide.
In conclusion, the University of Warsaw stands united in mourning the loss of a valued member of its community. The administration is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all students and staff as they navigate this difficult time together.
