Five dead and several injured after gunman opens fire in Krakow's market square
Polish authorities say a suspect drove into Krakow's Main Market Square and shot at people, killing five and wounding around a dozen, including two police officers.
Police in Krakow responded to a shooting that erupted around 15:00 local time in the city’s historic Main Market Square. Officials said a man driving a car opened fire on pedestrians, prompting officers to return fire and apprehend the suspect, who was later taken to a hospital.
The interior ministry identified the attacker as a Polish citizen and confirmed he is in police custody. Police denied reports that a second suspect is being sought and that any officer has died.
Five victims were pronounced dead and about a dozen people were injured, including two police officers. Interior Minister Marcin Kierwiński said one officer is in "very critical condition" with three gunshot wounds and surgery underway, while a second officer also sustained injuries.
A tram on route 1 was hit by gunfire from a passing car near All Saint’s Square, shattering the driver’s cab window, but the driver and passengers escaped unharmed, according to the city’s transport operator.
The city’s mayoral office urged residents to avoid the area as police continue investigations and emergency services remain on site.
U.S. ambassador to Poland Tom Rose described the incident as a "savage and murderous attack" and expressed solidarity with Poland. President Karol Nawrocki said he is "deeply concerned" and is in contact with authorities, noting that the head of the National Security Bureau is on his way to Krakow.