‘We heard about 20 shots’: Witnesses describe terror of Krakow shooting as six dead

Gunfire in the market square

The shooting took place in Krakow’s main market square, a popular spot for tourists and traditional horse-drawn carriages. Four women and two men were killed, and at least 15 other people were injured.

Armed officers arrived and exchanged gunfire with the suspect. Two officers were hurt, including one who was critically injured after suffering three gunshot wounds.

Witnesses recount the panic

People nearby said they heard shots and fled for cover. Aleksander told Poland’s Faktowi that he heard about 20 shots as tourists and others began running. He said he took shelter in a store, where a woman closed the door. Caitlin Shasby, who had arrived from Newcastle on Saturday, told the BBC she heard shots from her hotel room and learned there had been a shooting after a call from the hotel.

Suspect and official response

Police said the suspect was a 24-year-old Polish citizen who was shot and taken to hospital. He was reportedly wearing military-style clothing and had military weapons. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk travelled to Krakow from Warsaw. He praised the officers who risked their lives and urged politicians not to exploit the tragedy, saying authorities would explain the circumstances of the crime.