Five people died and roughly a dozen others, including police officers, suffered injuries after a man opened fire in Krakow’s Main Market Square. The police department reported that around 15:00 local time, the suspect entered the area driving a vehicle and began to "atirar aleatoriamente em pessoas de dentro do carro." He wore clothing described as military style by a spokesperson. Police shot the attacker during his arrest, and he is now being transported to a hospital for treatment.
Immediate Aftermath
Interior Minister Marcin Kierwinski confirmed one officer sustained three gunshot wounds and is undergoing surgery in very critical condition. A second officer was also shot while responding to the incident. Kierwinski stated that the Krakow police risked their lives to intervene immediately, noting that their heroic actions led to the rapid detention of the aggressor. A tram passing through the region took shots from the moving car, though city officials said no passengers or the driver were injured. Residents were asked to avoid the area while investigations continue.
Tali, a witness who fled into a restaurant, told Reuters she intended to hide upstairs until hearing silence. However, she soon heard a helicopter, likely an emergency team, and said she did not know how to reach her hotel safely. Prime Minister Donald Tusk affirmed that police are investigating the context and all circumstances of the attack. President Karol Nawrocki expressed deep concern and said his thoughts are with the victims and their families. He added that the head of the National Security Department is traveling to Krakow because the security of Poles is an absolute priority.
The city administration emphasized that the investigation remains active. Officials urged citizens to stay away from the square to allow law enforcement to work without interference. The specific motive behind the shooting has not been fully detailed in initial reports. Medical teams continue to treat the wounded at nearby facilities. The community remains on high alert following this sudden violence in the historic center.
