Croatia mourns school attack victim as protests demand safer schools

December 24, 2024 – Thousands of Croatians have taken to the streets of Zagreb to demand safer schools after a deadly attack at a primary school left a 7-year-old student dead and several others injured.

The attack at "Prečko" primary school on Friday has shaken the nation. A 19-year-old man, reportedly suffering from mental health issues, attacked a teacher and students during lessons. The child, a first-grader, died from his injuries, while a teacher and other students were injured but are expected to recover.

The demonstration, organized by three major education unions—Teachers' Union, "Preporod" Union, and the Independent Union of Secondary School Workers—saw people carrying lanterns and holding banners reading: "We want to be the light, not hold candles!" and "When a mother cries, all mothers cry." The march called for stronger measures to protect students from violence in schools.

Similar protests were held across Croatia, as the nation mourned the tragedy and condemned violence in schools. Many believe urgent reforms are needed to improve security and mental health support in educational institutions.

The Croatian government has pledged to review safety protocols in schools following the incident. As the investigation continues, the public is calling for immediate action to prevent further tragedies.