On May 7, 2025, the University of Warsaw became the scene of a horrific crime that has left the community in shock. A brutal attack on campus resulted in the death of a woman and serious injuries to a man, prompting an immediate investigation by local authorities.
According to reports, the incident unfolded in broad daylight, with a witness named Filip recounting the chilling moment he stumbled upon the scene. "I saw a very strange sight. A woman was lying on the ground, next to her was a man with a hatchet. It seemed surreal to me, but it quickly dawned on me that someone had probably killed someone else. I called the police, and a friend alerted the university security," he told TVN24.
The perpetrator, a 22-year-old male, has been identified as a third-year law student at the university, reportedly hailing from Gdynia. He was arrested at the scene, but as of now, the motives behind his actions remain unclear. The Warsaw prosecutor's office has announced a press conference scheduled for Thursday, where they will provide updates on the ongoing investigation and plans to question the young man.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the University of Warsaw declared May 8 a day of mourning, with classes canceled throughout the institution. In a statement released by the university, officials expressed their condolences, stating, "The community of the University of Warsaw has been affected by a tremendous tragedy. Our colleague, a university employee, has been brutally murdered. A university security officer has also been seriously injured. The perpetrator has been apprehended. I declare May 8, 2025, a day of mourning at the University of Warsaw."
The university's spokesperson, Dr. Anna Modzelewska, confirmed that the assailant is indeed a student of the university and extended her sympathies to the victims' families. "The perpetrator is our student. We express our condolences to the family and loved ones of the victim," she stated.
This tragic event has not only shaken the university community but has also raised concerns about safety in academic environments. Dr. Modzelewska emphasized the need for reflection on the increasing incidents of violence and aggression in educational spaces. "Let this day of mourning be a time for reflection on the rising acts of violence and aggression in academic settings," she remarked.
In response to the incident, the university has set up a crisis team to provide support to students and staff affected by the tragedy. They are also offering psychological assistance to those in need. Furthermore, the university has canceled the Juwenalia, a popular student festival scheduled for May 9-10, as a precautionary measure. The new dates for the event have yet to be announced.
As the investigation unfolds, the community is grappling with the reality that the perpetrator was one of their own. A fellow law student expressed her disbelief, saying, "We passed by that lady, so we probably recognized her from sight. But the thought that the perpetrator could be a student from our year is even more terrifying."
Authorities have urged the public to refrain from sharing audiovisual materials related to the crime, as some footage has already surfaced online. They stress the importance of respecting the privacy of the victims and their families during this difficult time.
The university community is now left to navigate the aftermath of this tragedy, as they come to terms with the loss of a colleague and the violent act that has marred their campus. The events of May 7 will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the University of Warsaw, prompting discussions about safety, mental health support, and the need for a united response to violence in academic institutions.
The university's leadership, alongside local authorities, is committed to ensuring that such incidents do not recur. As investigations continue, the focus remains on healing and supporting those affected by this shocking event.
As the community mourns, they are reminded of the fragility of life and the importance of looking out for one another. The University of Warsaw stands united in its grief, determined to honor the memory of the victim while also seeking justice for the heinous act that has shaken their campus.
