A deadly Krakow shooting has left six people dead and 15 injured, while two surgeons, two police officers and a group of Irish Civil Defence volunteers have been praised for helping victims during the chaotic aftermath.
The attack happened shortly before 15:00 local time on Saturday in Krakow’s historic centre, near the city’s Main Market Square. Authorities say a gunman opened fire at random before police confronted him. The suspect, who remains in critical condition, was also treated by doctors at the scene.
Krakow shooting leaves six dead and 15 injured
The victims included four Polish nationals, a British citizen and an Austrian woman. Witnesses described scenes of panic as people ran from the square, sought shelter in nearby businesses and tried to determine whether more than one attacker was involved.
Police said the violence lasted approximately three minutes. Bullets shattered shop windows and a tram was reportedly fired upon. The Main Market Square remained sealed while investigators examined the area before reopening on Sunday evening.
The two officers injured while confronting the gunman were identified as senior constables Jakub Kulik and Artur Morański. Both later emerged from comas. Poland’s prime minister called them “true heroes”, saying their intervention helped prevent further deaths.
Surgeons provide emergency treatment at the scene
Professor Michal Pędziwiatr and Dr Mateusz Wierdak were having lunch with their families when they heard gunfire. The surgeons immediately went towards the incident and began treating wounded people, including the suspect and the two police officers.
Dr Wierdak focused on the officer who had suffered a serious chest injury. Professor Pędziwiatr said his colleague applied emergency dressings and used his hands to help control the wound while the pair waited for an ambulance.
The doctors also contacted John Paul II Hospital, requesting that the injured officer be taken to specialists in thoracic and cardiac surgery. Professor Pędziwiatr said the priority was saving lives, regardless of a person’s identity or role in the attack.
Irish volunteers help Krakow shooting victims
Six Dublin Civil Defence volunteers were reportedly close to the Main Market Square during the Krakow shooting. The group was visiting the city and used its medical training to assist people in need.
According to an account given to Irish media, the volunteers provided CPR and haemorrhage control while emergency services responded. Their actions highlight the importance of first-aid knowledge during major incidents, when ambulances may be delayed by crowds, road restrictions or security cordons.
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Investigation examines possible extremist motive
Poland’s National Public Prosecutor’s Office has opened a terror investigation. A specialist unit responsible for terrorist offences is leading the inquiry.
Officials said the 24-year-old suspect appeared to have been influenced by far-right ideologies and held ultra-nationalist views. Authorities have not released his name. A search of his home reportedly found the bodies of his parents and sister, adding another disturbing element to the investigation.
Officials also said the suspect wore military-style tactical clothing and used a weapon described as military-grade. However, Poland’s government stated that he was not a member of the country’s armed forces.
Witnesses describe fear and confusion
People in and around the square described hearing repeated gunshots, seeing people run for cover and encountering injured victims as they tried to escape. Some witnesses hid inside a hotel or restaurant while armed police secured the area.
The attack took place in one of Krakow’s busiest tourist locations, raising concerns about public safety, emergency response and the vulnerability of crowded urban spaces. Investigators will now work to establish the attacker’s movements, motive and access to the weapon used.
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What happens next?
The investigation is expected to focus on the suspect’s background, ideological influences, family circumstances and the source of the firearm. Police will also continue gathering witness statements and reviewing video footage from the city centre.
- The two injured officers are recovering after emerging from comas.
- The suspect remains in critical condition and has not been publicly named.
- Prosecutors are investigating the attack as a possible act of terrorism.
- Main Market Square has reopened after investigators completed initial work.
Conclusion
The Krakow shooting has devastated families and shocked a major European tourist city. The bravery of the injured officers, the rapid intervention of surgeons and the assistance provided by Irish volunteers all played an important role in the emergency response. As the investigation continues, authorities will seek clear answers about the suspect’s motives and how the attack unfolded.