In Poland’s Krakow, 6 killed, 16 injured; 3 more bodies found at suspect’s home, far-right motive probed

New Delhi: At least six people were killed and 16 injured after a gunman opened fire in Krakow’s historic Main Market Square in Poland on Saturday. The prime minister of Poland, Donald Tusk, described the incident as an unprecedented case of terrorism in the country. Police arrested the 24-year-old suspect after an exchange of gunfire, while investigators also recovered three bodies from his residence.

The shooting took place shortly after 3pm when the attacker drove into the crowded square and fired at people. Police officers responded within minutes and confronted him in an exchange of fire. The suspect was shot, arrested and taken to hospital for surgery.

The investigation expanded after counterterrorism officers searched the suspect’s home in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, around 200km from Krakow. They found the bodies of two women and a man. Tusk said there were strong indications that the three were members of the suspect’s immediate family.

The Poland’s interior minister, Marcin Kierwiński, in an interview said that preliminary findings suggested the suspect was fascinated by far-right ideologies and held ultranationalist views. Authorities are examining his background, possible connections and the motive behind the attack.

Speaking after a briefing with security officials in Krakow, Tusk said Poland had not witnessed such drastic cases of terrorism before. He called for solidarity across the country and urged politicians not to exploit the tragedy.

The prime minister also praised the police officers, paramedics, firefighters and members of the public who helped victims. “In the face of the tragedy in Krakow, we saw what is best in people,” he said, highlighting the courage of police officers and the dedication of rescuers.

Tusk specifically praised senior constable, Jakub Kulik, and senior constable, Artur Morański, saying they had likely saved many lives despite risking their own. He said both officers were receiving medical care and wished them a recovery.

Foreign nationals among casualties

The six people killed included four women and two men. Three victims were Polish citizens and one was British, while the identities of the remaining two were yet to be established.

The injured included foreign nationals from Austria, Germany, Portugal, Russia and Britain. Police officers were also injured during the confrontation with the gunman. According to the prime minister’s briefing, three officers were hurt, with one fighting for his life.

Poland declares national mourning

The Polish president, Karol Nawrocki, declared two days of national mourning on Sunday and Monday. Krakow has separately announced a period of mourning until Tuesday.

European leaders, including representatives from France, Germany, Sweden, Hungary and Italy, expressed condolences and solidarity with Poland. The president of the European Commission and the United States ambassador also conveyed their support.

Security measures have been strengthened in Warsaw and other parts of Poland. Police, prosecutors and special services are continuing their investigation into the suspect’s background and the circumstances of the shooting.