A violent shooting incident in the historic center of Krakow, southern Poland, has resulted in at least five deaths and left 12 other individuals wounded. The attack took place on Saturday near the city's Main Market Square, which is recognized as one of the busiest tourist destinations in the country.
According to a police spokesperson, the incident began around 1400 GMT when a vehicle entered the square. The occupants of the car, which was one of 24 vehicles identified in the area at the time, reportedly fired at random people. Reports from RMF FM radio indicated that the attackers traveled along Slawkowska Street toward the main square, causing damage to a local shop and a tram during the assault.
Emergency services were deployed to the scene immediately, with an air ambulance helicopter landing in the square to assist the victims. Polish police confirmed that the gunman, who was dressed in military-style clothing and utilized a long military-type firearm, was neutralized by officers. The perpetrator was subsequently transported to a hospital.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk stated that he is receiving ongoing updates from the interior ministry regarding the police investigation. Justice Minister Waldemar Zurek confirmed that prosecutors, police, and relevant services are working at the scene, vowing that the perpetrator will be held fully accountable and severely punished. While authorities have not yet identified a potential motive, the incident has placed the country on high alert following a series of stabbings in October that Prime Minister Tusk previously described as part of a "cult of violence."
