A violent rampage in the heart of Kraków on Saturday has left six people dead and 16 wounded, in what government officials are describing as an “act of terror” targeting the city’s vibrant center.
The attack unfolded at approximately 3:00 p.m. in the city’s main square, a bustling hub that draws millions of tourists annually. Authorities confirmed that the suspect, a 25-year-old Polish citizen, opened fire with an automatic weapon, indiscriminately striking passersby and commuters. The carnage began when the attacker, driving a vehicle, fired upon a passing tram, shattering the driver’s cabin window.
Polish Interior Minister Marcin Kierwiński stated at a news conference that the gunman was known to hold “very radical” and “ultra-nationalistic” views and was deeply fascinated with far-right ideologies.
The toll of the tragedy expanded significantly late Saturday night when Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced that three more bodies—two women and one man—had been discovered inside the suspect’s home. It is believed these victims were members of the attacker’s own family.
Of the six individuals killed in the market square, police identified four women and two men. Among the deceased is a British citizen, along with three Polish women; the identities of the remaining two victims are still being confirmed. The 16 people injured in the shooting include five foreign nationals and two police officers. One of the officers remains in serious condition after being shot three times during an exchange of gunfire with the perpetrator.
The brazen nature of the attack has sent shockwaves through the country. Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz characterized the shooting as an “act of terror” against the people of Kraków. Government spokesperson Adam Szłapka reflected the national mood on X, writing, “Today’s event in Kraków has shaken all of Poland.” Prime Minister Tusk traveled to the city late Saturday to oversee the emergency response.
The attack has reignited concerns regarding the rapid increase in firearm ownership within the country. Recent reports indicate that the number of legally owned guns in Poland surpassed one million for the first time this year, with record numbers of gun permits being issued throughout 2025.
Justice Minister Waldemar Żurek has vowed that the state will “ensure that the perpetrator of this crime is held fully accountable and severely punished.” In light of the tragedy, the government has declared a period of national mourning for Sunday and Monday, during which the nation will honor the victims of the attack.
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