Poland Launches Terrorism Probe After Attack Kills Six, Including British National

Poland has commenced two days of national mourning following a tragic incident in central Krakow where an armed man killed six people. The national prosecutor’s office has initiated a “terrorism” investigation into the attack.

The 24-year-old Polish suspect opened fire on Saturday in the historic heart of Krakow. Police confirmed that a British national was among the six fatalities. Authorities reported to the PAP news agency that nationals from Austria, Britain, Germany, Portugal, and Russia were among the 15 individuals injured.

In addition to the Krakow incident, three more bodies were discovered at the suspect’s residence in Ostrowiec Swietokrzyski, located approximately 150km (93 miles) northeast of Krakow. Police identified these individuals as his parents and sister. The suspect sustained injuries during police intervention and is currently in critical condition in hospital.

Poland’s National Prosecutor’s Office announced on social media on Sunday the launch of an investigation into the Krakow attack, citing the “killing of six people… using a firearm, and the attempted murder of many others, including police officers, this act constituting a terrorist offence”.

Daniel Prokopowicz, a spokesperson for the office, stated that it is “highly likely” the killings in Ostrowiec Swietokrzyski and Krakow were perpetrated by the same individual, though investigations are ongoing. Media reports indicate the suspect, identified as Michal O, possessed a valid gun license and had no prior criminal record.

Polish Interior Minister Marcin Kierwinski stated that the attacker was influenced by far-right and ultranationalist ideologies and views.

Meanwhile, Krakow’s main market square and surrounding streets remained closed on Sunday, with access restricted to essential service workers. Many nearby cafes were shut, and flags at the city hall were flown at half-mast. Mourners gathered at various locations in the area, placing candles in remembrance of the victims.

The traditional hourly trumpet call from St Mary’s church on the square was suspended for 12 hours to commemorate the deceased, an unprecedented measure not seen since 1939, according to the Polish Press Agency.