Briton among six killed by ‘far-right’ gunman in Krakow rampage

A British national was among six people killed when a gunman opened fire on a popular nightlife district in Krakow on Thursday night, Polish police said, adding that the attacker was suspected of holding extremist far‑right views. The incident, which unfolded in the bustling Kazimierz district near the historic market square, has shocked the city and raised fresh concerns about political violence in Europe.Police said the suspect, a 28‑year‑old Polish man, entered the area around 22:45 local time, brandishing a semi‑automatic rifle that he had reportedly modified. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as the gunfire echoed through the narrow streets, prompting panicked crowds to flee into nearby bars and cafés..

By the time emergency services arrived, at least twelve people had been wounded, three of them critically. The wounded were taken to the Jagiellonian University Hospital and other local facilities, where doctors worked through the night to stabilise them.The attack claimed the lives of six individuals, including a 32‑year‑old British tourist who had been visiting Krakow as part of a cultural tour of Poland’s historic sites. The British victim, identified by his family as James H., was described as a “friendly and curious traveller” who had been exploring the city’s medieval architecture and vibrant street art..

His death has prompted an outpouring of grief from both the local community and the British embassy, which issued a statement confirming consular support for his family.Polish authorities identified the perpetrator as a resident of the Silesian region, a former member of a nationalist group that had been under police surveillance for several years. While the police have not released the name of the group, investigators say it is linked to the broader far‑right movement that has gained traction across Central and Eastern Europe. The suspect’s online activity, according to prosecutors, included the posting of extremist propaganda and calls for “defending the nation” against perceived foreign influences..

The investigation is also looking into whether the shooter acted alone or was part of a coordinated network.Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki addressed the nation on Friday, condemning the attack as a “horrific act of terror” and pledging swift judicial action. He highlighted that the police had acted quickly to neutralise the gunman, who was shot dead by a special response unit after a brief exchange of fire near the main square. “Poland will not tolerate any form of extremist violence,” Morawiecki said, urging European partners to collaborate in counter‑terrorism efforts and to confront the spread of extremist ideologies that threaten democratic societies.The European Union’s top counter‑terrorism agency, Europol, issued a brief statement noting that the attack underscores a “growing pattern of right‑wing extremist violence” across member states..

Europol’s director, Andrea Veneri, called for enhanced intelligence sharing and a coordinated response to the radicalisation of individuals, particularly those who have access to firearms. The statement arrived as several EU governments are reviewing their strategies for monitoring extremist groups, especially those that operate across borders and exploit online platforms to recruit and radicalise.In Krakow, city officials have ordered a period of mourning, with the flag at the municipal building lowered to half‑mast. A candle‑light vigil is scheduled for Sunday at the historic St..

Mary’s Basilica, where families of the victims, local residents and officials will gather to pay respects. Mayor Jacek Majchrowski expressed his sorrow, describing Krakow as “a city that welcomes the world” and urging the community to remain resilient. He also announced the establishment of a city‑wide support fund for the families of those killed and injured.The British embassy in Warsaw confirmed that consular staff are in contact with James H.’s relatives, offering assistance with repatriation and counselling services..

In a message to the press, the embassy highlighted the importance of international cooperation in the aftermath of such attacks, noting that “the safety of our citizens abroad remains a top priority.” The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office also reiterated its commitment to work closely with Polish authorities as the investigation proceeds.Analysts point to the Krakow shooting as part of a disturbing surge in far‑right violence that has plagued several European nations in recent months. In Germany, a similar attack on a synagogue earlier this year left multiple victims, while in Sweden, a series of assaults linked to neo‑nationalist groups have prompted tighter security measures. Political scientists warn that the convergence of online radicalisation, easy access to modified weapons and a climate of political polarization creates a fertile environment for lone‑wolf attacks, even as law enforcement agencies intensify surveillance of extremist networks.Human rights organisations have called for a balanced approach that addresses both security concerns and the protection of civil liberties..

Amnesty International released a statement urging Polish authorities to ensure that any investigations or prosecutions respect the rule of law and avoid targeting legitimate political expression. The organization also stressed the need for comprehensive strategies that include education, community engagement and mental‑health support to counter the roots of extremist ideology.As Krakow mourns the loss of its residents and a visiting Briton, the city’s cultural heartbeat appears determined to endure. Local businesses, many of which were forced to close after the attack, have begun to reopen, signalling a resolve to restore normalcy..

Residents have expressed a collective hope that the tragedy will not define their city, but instead galvanise a stronger, more inclusive community. The investigation continues, with police urging anyone with further information to come forward, while the nation watches closely to see how Poland and its European partners will respond to the challenge of far‑right extremism..