Poland launches terrorism probe after Krakow shooting kills six
Six people were killed and 15 injured in a shooting in Krakow's historic centre; authorities opened a terrorism investigation and declared two days of national mourning.
Poland has declared two days of national mourning following a shooting in Krakow's historic market square that left six dead and 15 wounded, including a British national. The 24-year-old suspect, identified as Michal O., was wounded by police and remains in critical condition. Three additional bodies, identified as the suspect's parents and sister, were later found at his home in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, about 150 km northeast of Krakow.
Poland's National Prosecutor's Office announced on social media that it had opened a terrorism investigation into the attack, describing the killings and attempted murders, including of police officers, as a terrorist offence. spokesperson Daniel Prokopowicz said it is "highly likely" the killings in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski and Krakow were carried out by the same individual, though investigations continue.
Interior Minister Marcin Kierwinski said the attacker appeared to be influenced by far-right and ultranationalist ideologies. The suspect held a valid firearms licence and had no prior criminal record, according to media reports.
Krakow's main market square and surrounding streets were closed to the public, with only essential services allowed. Flags at city hall were lowered to half-mast, candles were placed at several locations, and the traditional hourly trumpet call from St Mary's Church was suspended for 12 hours – the first such suspension since 1939.