At least five people died and about a dozen others sustained injuries during a shooting near the main market square in Krakow, Poland, on Saturday. Authorities reported that the gunman was shot and wounded during an exchange of fire with law enforcement before being transported to a hospital.
Gunman Targeted Random People
Krakow police stated that the perpetrator fired at random individuals while driving his vehicle through the city’s central square area. Several police officers were among those wounded in the attack. According to a statement posted by police on X, a man drove a car into the market square at approximately 3 p.m. local time and began shooting at random bystanders from inside the automobile. Officers subsequently shot the perpetrator at the scene.
Following the incident, authorities initially instructed individuals located near the immediate area to evacuate to safety. Police later informed AFP that the assailant is a Polish citizen who acted alone.
Official Reactions and City Details
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk described the event as a tragic incident on X, adding that police forces are actively investigating the attack. Polish President Karol Nawrocki also took to X to express that his thoughts are with the victims, the wounded individuals, and their families.
Krakow, situated roughly 250 kilometers from the national capital of Warsaw, is Poland’s second-largest city with a population exceeding 800,000 residents. Recognized as a major destination for tourists, the city features prominent landmarks such as its main square, Wawel Castle, and the cathedral situated on Wawel Hill.
Authorities continue to investigate the developing situation.
