Krakow shooting leaves several dead and triggers police alert

The main market square in the Polish city of Krakow turned into a scene of a random shooting on Saturday, November 7, 2026, after a gunman opened fire from a vehicle at pedestrians, leaving five dead and more than twelve injured, according to the toll announced by authorities. Police confirmed that the perpetrator is a Polish citizen who acted alone.

The incident began around 3:00 PM in the heart of the historic city, before security forces intervened to pursue the attacker. During an exchange of fire, two police officers were wounded, while police managed to shoot the gunman, apprehend him, and transport him to the hospital.

According to information reported by the Associated Press from police sources, the detainee was wearing military-style clothing and carrying a long firearm; additional weapons and ammunition were also seized inside his vehicle. Police clarified that there are no other suspects at large linked to the attack.

The repercussions of the shooting extended to public transport, as the Krakow municipality announced that a tram had been fired upon by a passing vehicle, shattering the driver's cabin glass without causing injuries to the driver or passengers. Emergency and security operations continued in the vicinity of the incident, amid calls for the public to stay away from emergency response zones.

The motives for the attack remain unclear based on available data, while Prime Minister Donald Tusk confirmed he is monitoring developments, noting that police are investigating the background of the assault and all surrounding circumstances. The casualty toll remains preliminary and subject to updates as new official information becomes available.