Gunman Kills Six and Injures 15 in Krakow's Main Market Square
A gunman opened fire on crowds in Krakow's historic centre, leaving at least six dead and 15 injured before being shot and detained.
At a glance
- A gunman opened fire in Krakow's central square on Saturday, killing six people and injuring at least 15 others.
- Armed police engaged the suspect in a shootout, leaving two officers injured, including one who remains in very critical condition.
- The suspect, a male Polish citizen wearing military-style gear, was shot and arrested with multiple weapons in his car.
At least six people were killed and 15 others injured on Saturday afternoon after a gunman opened fire on crowds in the Main Market Square in Krakow, Poland. The attack occurred shortly before 15:00 local time (14:00 GMT) in the city's central square, a bustling hub and popular destination for visitors.
Police reported that the suspect drove his vehicle into the square and began shooting randomly at pedestrians from inside the car. Panic erupted across the area as bystanders fled for cover into nearby buildings and churches. Armed officers quickly arrived at the scene and engaged in an exchange of gunfire with the shooter. The attacker was shot and taken into custody alive.
Casualties and Officer Injuries
Authorities confirmed that four women and two men were killed during the shooting. Among the at least 15 people injured were two police officers who confronted the suspect. A Polish government minister stated that one of the officers was in very critical condition and undergoing surgery after being shot three times while apprehending the gunman.
Municipal officials advised residents and tourists to avoid the square while emergency services and forensic teams continued their on-site investigation. Bullet damage and shattered glass were visible across several storefronts lining the square.
Suspect and Motive
Police confirmed that the arrested gunman is a male Polish citizen. A police spokesperson stated that the attacker was dressed in military-style attire and used a military-grade weapon. Authorities also discovered a substantial cache of weapons and ammunition inside the suspect's vehicle.
Officials have not yet established or publicly released a motive for the attack. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced he was traveling to Krakow to address the situation, while President Karol Nawrocki expressed deep concern and called for a full explanation of the tragedy.
Source: BBC World.
Questions and answers
- How many people were killed and injured in the Krakow shooting?
- Six people—four women and two men—were killed, and at least 15 others were injured, including two responding police officers.
- Was the gunman in Krakow captured?
- Yes. The shooter, identified as a male Polish citizen wearing military-style clothing, was shot by armed officers and arrested at the scene.
- What is known about the motive for the attack?
- Authorities have not yet confirmed a motive for the attack, and police are actively investigating the circumstances.
