Fire Six dead, eight injured in Most fire
A deadly fire broke out at the U Kojota restaurant in Most late on Saturday night, resulting in six fatalities and eight injuries, six of them severe. Firefighters are still securing the building’s structure. The fire, which reportedly started from a gas heater, rapidly spread throughout the restaurant. Police suspect a propane tank explosion may have caused the blaze.
Economy Czech inflation exceeded 3 percent in December
Year-on-year inflation in Czechia rose to over 3 percent in December, up from 2.8 percent in November, analysts estimate. The increase was influenced by a lower base from December 2023 when food prices fell due to a VAT reduction. Analysts predict average inflation for 2024 to be around 2.4 percent. The higher demand during the holidays and a statistical base effect from 2023 are expected to push inflation above 3 percent. Official data will be released on Monday.
Music Czech conductor Mario Klemens dies at 88
Czech conductor and educator Mario Klemens passed away in Prague at the age of 88, his son Adam confirmed. Best known for his work as the longtime conductor of the Film Symphony Orchestra (FISYO), Klemens contributed to over 150 film scores. A native of Chlumec nad Cidlinou, he led FISYO from 1979 until its disbandment in the 1990s. Klemens also taught conducting at the Prague Conservatory, inspiring generations of musicians.
Sports Bouzková exits Australian Open in first round
Marie Bouzková fell in the first round of the Australian Open, losing 3-6, 3-6 to Russia’s Mirra Andreeva. The 26-year-old Czech player, ranked 42nd in the world, struggled against the 17-year-old, who hit 27 winners in the match. This marks Bouzková’s fifth first-round exit in six appearances in Melbourne. She remains in the tournament’s doubles competition with partner Bethanie Mattek-Sands.
Health Long waits for addiction treatment in Czechia
Addicts in Czechia face wait times of weeks or even over six months for inpatient care, former addiction clinic head Petr Popov tells Czech News Agency. The country had nearly 13,000 hospitalized addicts in 2023 but only 555 psychiatric hospital beds. Private facilities, often unaffordable for many, have grown to fill gaps. The newly built Libella sanatorium near Kolín offers premium care but charges from CZK 8,000 per night.
Crime Missing 16-year-old boy from Aš found dead
A 16-year-old boy from Aš, missing since New Year’s Eve, has been found dead, police spokesperson Kateřina Pešková confirmed. No further details were provided, and a court-ordered autopsy will determine the cause of death. The boy had disappeared on Dec. 31 after leaving home with a friend. Police initiated a search amid concerns he might harm himself, based on messages discovered by his older brother.