Kraków Mass Shooting Suspect Dies as Poland Investigates Motive Behind Deadly Attack

A 24-year-old Polish man suspected of carrying out a mass shooting that killed six people in the historic centre of Kraków has died in hospital, police confirmed on Monday.

The suspect, identified as Michał Oksiński, had been critically wounded during a confrontation with police following Saturday's attack at the city's Main Market Square, one of Poland's busiest tourist destinations.

The shooting left six people dead and numerous others injured, including two police officers who confronted the attacker. Authorities said the gunman had driven into the square before opening fire, causing panic among residents and visitors.

Investigators subsequently discovered the bodies of three members of the suspect's family at their home in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. Police believe the deaths may be connected to the attack, although the circumstances remain under investigation.

The suspect's death comes as Polish authorities face growing questions about what motivated the violence.

Interior Minister Marcin Kierwiński had earlier suggested that the gunman held radical nationalist views and showed an interest in far-right ideology. Prosecutors, however, said there was insufficient evidence to establish a political motive.

Investigators are examining electronic devices, firearms, ammunition and symbols recovered during searches to determine whether the suspect acted independently or had connections to an extremist organisation.

Authorities have also detained five people over online messages allegedly praising the shooting, amid concerns that the attack could inspire further violence.

The incident has shocked Poland, where mass shootings of this scale are uncommon. Memorials have appeared around Kraków's historic square, while residents have gathered to remember those killed.

The attack has also prompted renewed discussion about firearms licensing and public security. Polish authorities are expected to examine whether existing safeguards were sufficient to identify potential threats before the violence occurred.

Although the suspected gunman can no longer stand trial, prosecutors say their investigation will continue to establish the circumstances of the attack and whether anyone else was involved.