Prague, Czech Republic – This year marks the 50th anniversary of Olga Hepnarová’s mass murder, where she drove a truck into a crowd on Milada Horákové Street in Prague 7, resulting in the death of eight people. Despite the tragedy’s significance, it has largely been forgotten by many, with some residents of the area only learning about it through news articles, movies, or documentaries. The absence of a memorial plaque or any commemoration at the site has contributed to the fading memory of the incident.

Hepnarová’s crime occurred on July 10, 1973, when she intentionally drove a borrowed Praga RN truck into a crowd waiting at a tram stop. Over the past 50 years, the area has undergone significant changes, including the relocation of the tram stop several meters down Milada Horákové Street toward Strossmayerovo náměstí. The building that once housed a children’s clothing store and dairy has been replaced by a restaurant and a pizzeria.

The memories of the tragedy have faded over time, especially among newer residents, despite the presence of eyewitnesses who still reside in the area. The absence of a memorial plaque or any form of remembrance at the site has further contributed to the collective forgetting of the incident. However, a recent poll revealed that over 60% of respondents believe a memorial plaque should be installed at the location to honor the victims.

Currently, the Prague 7 city council does not have plans to erect a memorial plaque at the site. According to a council spokesperson, any initiative for a memorial plaque would need to originate from citizens, relatives of the victims, or those directly impacted by the tragedy. However, the spokesperson did not dismiss the possibility of a future memorial plaque, emphasizing the need for a sensitive and respectful approach, particularly regarding the families and loved ones of the victims.

The absence of a memorial plaque has raised concerns about the potential for the formation of a cult surrounding the perpetrator. While it is essential to remember the victims, it is equally crucial to avoid glorifying or celebrating the individual responsible. Prague 7 mayor Jan Čižinský echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the necessity of approaching the issue with caution and sensitivity.

Despite the passage of time, Olga Hepnarová’s mass murder tragedy still holds significance for many Czechs. It serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of remembering victims of violent crimes and the need to approach such matters with sensitivity and respect. Calls for a memorial plaque at the site reflect the desire to honor the victims and ensure that their memory is preserved for future generations.

Article by Prague Forum