Scottish tourist among six killed in Krakow mass shooting, police aid families
A 32-year-old Scottish man died in a mass shooting in Krakow’s Main Square that left six people dead and 16 injured; Police Scotland is assisting his family and cooperating with Polish authorities.
Six people were killed and 16 injured after a gunman opened fire in Krakow’s Main Square on Saturday, Polish officials said. Among the dead was James Campbell, a 32-year-old from Prestwick, Scotland, who was on a short holiday with a friend.
Police Scotland confirmed it is providing specialist liaison support to Campbell’s family and is working with the UK Counter Terrorism Policing network and Polish authorities to identify the victims and arrange repatriation. Detective chief inspector David McAlinden, senior investigating officer from Police Scotland’s Counter Terrorism Policing unit, said:
"We are aware of the tragic death of a Scottish man in Krakow. While formal identification is yet to take place, our family liaison officers are providing specialist support to his family in Scotland. Working in conjunction with COPFS, Police Scotland is supporting the UK Counter Terrorism Policing network and the Polish authorities. The immediate shared priority is to ensure that identification is properly established for the family, so that repatriation can take place as quickly as possible. The family has asked for their privacy to be respected. Our thoughts are with them and everyone impacted by this incident."
The 24-year-old shooter, who is also suspected of killing three members of his own family, was shot by police, taken to hospital and later died.
Scottish First Minister John Swinney expressed sympathy for the victims and said the Scottish Government is in contact with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and Police Scotland to support the family. An FCDO spokesperson added that consular staff remain in contact with the families and are providing assistance.
Polish interior minister Marcin Kierwinski described the incident as an act of terror, noting the attacker held “very radical” and “ultranationalistic” views.
Another British citizen, 19-year-old Harry Marchant of York, was injured in the attack and is receiving treatment in Poland. North Yorkshire Police confirmed his condition is stable and that they are assisting his family while requesting privacy for his recovery.