This is the 3467th most frequent Russian word.
произойти
To occur, happen, or take place.
The word 'произошёл' here means 'occurred' or 'took place,' referring to an event happening.
Вчера произошёл небольшой инцидент в офисе.
Yesterday, a small incident occurred in the office.
The verb 'произойти' here represents the action of an event happening or taking place, often with a sense of curiosity or disbelief.
Как такое могло произойти?
How could such a thing happen?
In this context, 'произошло' is used in the past tense to ask about events that have taken place after a specific moment.