A 24-year-old man suspected of killing six people and wounding 15 in Krakow died in police custody on Nov. 9, Polish authorities said. (Foto: Instagram)
A 24-year-old Polish man suspected of carrying out a shooting that killed six people and wounded 15 in central Krakow died early Monday, Nov. 9, while hospitalized in police custody, Polish authorities confirmed. Police had shot him during an operation to stop him on Saturday, Nov. 7. He remained in critical condition and received medical treatment but did not survive.
The shooting took place in the Main Market Square, one of the city’s busiest tourist areas. Investigators say the man drove to Krakow’s historic center and opened fire at random on people in the square. Six people—four women and two men—were killed. The victims included citizens of Poland, the United Kingdom and Austria. Fifteen others were injured, including two police officers; some of the wounded were from Portugal, Russia, Germany, Austria and the United Kingdom.
The investigation also expanded after police found three bodies at a residence associated with the suspect in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, about 150 kilometers from Krakow. Authorities identified the dead as his parents, ages 53 and 52, and his 21-year-old sister. They had suffered gunshot wounds. Investigators are examining the possibility that the same man killed his family before carrying out the attack in Krakow. The connection between the events has not been established.
Polish officials initially said the suspect held radical views and may have been influenced by far-right ideology. Interior Minister Marcin Kierwinski said there were indications that the man was fascinated by such political movements. Authorities have urged caution about drawing conclusions on his motives, however, and have not confirmed that he belonged to an extremist organization or had accomplices.
Justice Minister Waldemar Zurek said the investigation would continue after the suspect’s death. Officials are seeking to determine whether he acted alone or was influenced by a group or organization. Investigators are also examining symbols found on his clothing, along with electronic devices, weapons and ammunition seized during the inquiry.
The attack prompted widespread grief in Poland, where mass shootings are considered uncommon. The government declared two days of national mourning, and authorities increased security in crowded areas, particularly in Warsaw and other cities. In Krakow, residents and tourists left flowers and candles in the square. A traditional hourly musical performance at St. Mary’s Church in the city center was suspended in tribute to the victims. Authorities continue to reconstruct the events and investigate the nine killings linked to the suspect.
