KRAKOW, Poland: A deadly shooting in the historic centre of Krakow, Poland, has left six people dead and at least 15 others injured after a gunman opened fire on people in the city’s popular Main Market Square on Saturday, November 7, 2026.
The attack triggered a major emergency response, with police officers, medical teams and other emergency personnel rushing to the scene. Authorities confirmed that the suspect was shot and arrested by police following an exchange of gunfire.
The incident occurred at approximately 3 p.m. local time in one of Poland’s busiest tourist destinations. The Main Market Square, known for its historic architecture, restaurants and outdoor cafés, was crowded with residents and visitors when the shooting began.
Police said the attacker was a 25-year-old Polish national who drove through several locations in the square while firing an automatic weapon. Investigators believe he acted alone. The suspect was wearing military-style clothing and a bulletproof vest, and officers recovered additional firearms and ammunition from his vehicle.
Victims and Police Investigation
The six victims comprised four women and two men. Polish authorities confirmed that a British citizen was among those killed. Fifteen other people were injured, including two police officers who sustained serious injuries during the confrontation.
Police shot the suspect during the exchange of gunfire before taking him into custody. He was transported to hospital for treatment and underwent surgery.
Polish Interior Minister Marcin Kierwiński said preliminary findings suggested the suspect had been influenced by far-right ideology and held radical ultranationalist views. Investigators are examining his background and possible motives.
In a further development, Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced that authorities had discovered the bodies of three of the suspect’s relatives inside his home in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, approximately 150 kilometres from Krakow.
Poland Mourns After Deadly Attack
The shooting has prompted widespread condemnation and expressions of sympathy from political leaders across Europe.
Krakow Mayor Łukasz Gibała announced an official period of mourning through Wednesday as the city began responding to the tragedy.
Authorities continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack, while police maintain security measures following the incident.
The shooting has renewed concerns about public safety in Poland, where mass shootings remain relatively uncommon.