Kraków shooting latest updates: five killed and more than a dozen injured, police say
Five people have been killed and more than a dozen injured in a shooting incident in Kraków, Poland, where a gunman opened fire from a car in the city's Main Market Square.
The shooting occurred around 3 pm local time (2 pm GMT) when a car entered the Main Market Square, a major tourist destination in Kraków, and began firing at random people, according to police reports. Emergency services responded quickly to the scene, where they found multiple casualties.
Police officers engaged with the perpetrator during the incident, resulting in the gunman being shot and wounded. The attacker is currently being transported to a hospital for medical treatment, authorities confirmed.
Among the injured are police officers who responded to the attack, though specific details about their conditions have not been released. The exact number of injured individuals remains unclear, with reports indicating 'more than a dozen' people were hurt.
Investigation Underway
Polish authorities have launched a full investigation into the shooting, with prosecutors and police securing evidence at the scene. No motive has been officially announced, though Prime Minister Donald Tusk stated that police are investigating 'all circumstances' of the attack.
I am being kept informed by the Minister of the Interior about the situation in Kraków following the tragic shooting. The police are investigating the background and all the circumstances of the attack.
Government Response
Justice Minister Waldemar Żurek addressed the public following the incident, describing it as a 'terrible tragedy' and expressing condolences to the victims' families. He emphasized that the perpetrator will be 'severely punished' and called for public cooperation with emergency services.
The Polish government has deployed additional resources to Kraków to support the ongoing investigation and maintain public order. The incident has raised concerns about security in public spaces, particularly in tourist areas.
City in Shock
Kraków, Poland's second-largest city located approximately 250 kilometers (155 miles) from the capital Warsaw, is known for its historic Main Market Square, which attracts millions of tourists annually. The square has been cordoned off as investigations continue.
Local authorities have urged residents and visitors to avoid the area while emergency services work at the scene. Counseling services have been made available for those affected by the traumatic event.
The shooting marks one of the most violent incidents in Kraków in recent years, prompting discussions about public safety measures in Polish cities. Police have increased patrols in other tourist areas as a precautionary measure.
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