Prague teacher detained following false school shooting report

Prague police responded to reports of gunfire at a local high school on Žižkov on Friday afternoon, sending dozens of officers to the scene. Authorities quickly determined that no shots had been fired, and no one was in danger.

The incident, which reportedly involved a teacher making a false report to test police reaction, has raised concerns over student safety and the misuse of emergency services.

Czech Interior Minister Lubomír Metnar called the false report “unforgivable,” stressing that false alarms endanger children, school staff, and first responders. “This is especially serious when the report comes from a teacher,” he wrote on social media, thanking police for their professional handling of the situation.

The teacher, a 27-year-old man, was detained by police at the school. He was later transported by ambulance for medical and psychological evaluation. Police said he will face investigation for spreading false reports, which carries a potential prison sentence of six months to three years or a fine.

Another man was briefly detained at the scene was released after it became clear he was not involved. “The only suspect is the teacher, who is now in police custody,” a police statement said.

Students were escorted from the school with their hands raised, according to social media videos, but none were injured. A school employee confirmed that all children were safe but declined further comment.

Authorities are treating the incident with heightened attention, reflecting past tragedies. In December 2023, a shooting at the Charles University Faculty of Philosophy killed 14 students and staff.

More recently, in early December 2025, police responded to threats at two Prague schools, both of which proved false but prompted rapid intervention.

Prague 3 Mayor Michal Vronský noted that the school is privately run, meaning the city is not responsible for its operation. He added that the teacher’s employment status is not currently under review, pending the legal process and health assessment.

Police and emergency services continue to emphasize vigilance in school security and the importance of taking all threat reports seriously. Officials urged schools and the public to avoid speculation and allow authorities to investigate before drawing conclusions.