Five dead after gunman opens fire ‘at random’ in Kraków market square
A gunman opened fire in Kraków’s bustling market square, killing six people and wounding 16 before being apprehended, in what officials call an act of terror. The 25-year-old Polish suspect, who held ultra-nationalistic and far-right views, appeared to act alone and targeted the crowd with an automatic weapon. Authorities found multiple weapons and ammunition in his car, and three close family members were later found dead at his home. The attack prompted national mourning, heightened security, and assurances that Kraków would remain open to visitors as investigations continue. The incident underscores concerns over the rise of extremist violence and reflects a broader scrutiny of firearm access in Poland.
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The attack occurred in Kraków's main market square around 3pm, with the gunman firing more than 20 rounds and riding around the square in a vehicle, causing injuries at several locations.
Two police officers were injured, one of them seriously after being shot three times; overall 13 people were reported hospitalized in serious condition, a figure that may include the gunman post-surgery.
Three victims were identified as Polish women, while the remaining two victims were not named; a British national was among the deceased and five foreign nationals from Britain, Austria, Germany, Portugal and Russia were wounded.
The suspect was described as fascinated with far-right ideologies and as holding radical, ultra-nationalistic views; his car was found with other weapons and ammunition, and he reportedly continued firing even after being wounded.
Hours after the shooting, authorities announced the discovery of three close family members dead at the suspect's home in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski; the city is located about 90 miles northeast of Kraków.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk and other officials condemned the attack, with Tusk traveling to Kraków and multiple leaders vowing accountability; Warsaw increased security measures in the capital, including barriers on major streets.
Polish officials indicated the event would be followed by a period of national mourning, while Kraków’s mayor pledged that the square would return to normalcy and remain accessible to visitors.