A 19-year-old British man from York, Harry Marchant, is in a stable condition after being shot during a tragic attack in Krakow, Poland, on Saturday. The incident occurred shortly before 15:00 local time (14:00 GMT) in the city's bustling Main Market Square, a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Attack Leaves Six Dead and Many Injured
The assailant, a 24-year-old man, opened fire in the square, fatally shooting four Polish citizens, a British national, and an Austrian woman. Additionally, 15 others, including two police officers, sustained injuries. The attacker died in hospital on Monday from injuries sustained during his arrest. Authorities have not yet released further details about the victims.
Marchant's family released a statement expressing their gratitude to the first responders, medical team, and the people of Poland for their care and support. They also requested privacy as they focus on Harry's recovery. The family's statement highlighted the kindness they have received during this difficult time.
Witnesses Recall Harrowing Escape
Twin sisters Sienna and Rimini Chapman, 20, from Northallerton, North Yorkshire, were in Krakow celebrating a friend's 21st birthday when the attack unfolded. They described the terrifying moments when they heard gunfire and fled for their lives. The group was walking towards a cafe in the square when the shots rang out.
Sienna recounted: 'At first I thought the shots were to scare the pigeons away, but then everyone suddenly started running towards us. We realised something was wrong and ran in the opposite direction for our lives.' The sisters, originally from Worcester, managed to find refuge in a nearby cafe, where they hid under tables for two hours, staying in contact with their families and following news updates online.
Rimini described the scene as 'manic' and noted the confusion inside the cafe, where staff and customers were initially unaware of the shooting. 'Everyone else was completely oblivious. It was like we were in two different worlds,' she said. The group eventually felt safe enough to leave and returned to their hotel, where they spent the rest of the evening trying to process the ordeal. The sisters said they were 'extremely shaken' by the experience.
Investigation into Motive Continues
In the aftermath of the shooting, a Polish government minister stated that early investigations suggested the attacker had been inspired by 'far-right ideologies.' However, the country's Prosecutor Office said on Monday that the investigation into his motive remains ongoing. Police also discovered the bodies of the gunman's parents and sister at his residence on Saturday, adding to the tragedy.
The attack has sent shockwaves through Krakow, a city known for its historic charm and vibrant tourism. The British Foreign Office has confirmed it is supporting the family of the injured British man and is in contact with local authorities. The community in York has also expressed shock and solidarity with Harry Marchant and his family.
As the investigation continues, the people of Krakow and visitors alike are left to grapple with the senseless violence that disrupted a peaceful Saturday afternoon. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this horrific event.
