Zagreb, Dec 24, (V7N) – A solemn crowd of thousands filled the streets of Zagreb on Monday evening, marching in silence to demand action for school safety following a shocking stabbing incident that claimed the life of a young child.

The heart-wrenching attack occurred Friday when a 19-year-old man, a former student with a history of mental health struggles, entered a primary school in the Croatian capital. Armed with a knife, he attacked four students and a teacher. Among the victims, a seven-year-old child tragically lost their life. The suspect injured himself before being taken into custody.

The survivors, including three children and the teacher, are now being treated in Zagreb hospitals, with officials reporting their conditions as stable.

A Silent Demand for Change
The march, led by a massive banner reading “For safe school,” was a powerful and emotional display. Around the country, candles were lit in front of schools in solidarity. Placards carried poignant messages, including “We want to be the light of society, not carry candles” and “When one mother cries, all mothers cry.”

Zeljko Stipic, a leader of one of Croatia’s education trade unions, called it a “sad procession,” echoing the profound grief and anger felt nationwide.

Voices of the People
Denis Dvorzak, a father of young schoolchildren, marched to demand immediate action. “This incident reveals systemic failures. But I hope the day comes when changes happen without us needing to protest,” he told Voice7News.

Another marcher, pensioner Goranka Samson, expressed sorrow and determination. “A young life was stolen. We march to make sure this tragedy is not forgotten and to push for real change.”

Government Responds
Faced with public outrage, Education Minister Radovan Fuchs announced urgent measures to bolster school security. These include mandatory locking of school entrances and upgrading locks to prevent external access.

Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic assured the nation that comprehensive reforms are under consideration, including employing professional security agencies at schools. “Children’s safety is paramount,” Plenkovic stated. “Our goal is to establish consistent and effective security standards nationwide.”

A Nation in Mourning, A Call for Action
This tragedy has sparked a wave of grief and a unified call for change. As Croatia mourns, the marchers’ message is clear: safeguarding children must be a national priority.

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