York man, 19, shot and injured in Krakow attack

York man, 19, shot and injured in Krakow attack

A British teenager, Harry Marchant, aged 19, is currently in stable condition after being wounded in a shooting incident in Krakow, Poland. The attack occurred around 15:00 local time on Saturday in the bustling Main Market Square. Marchant, who hails from York, was among the injured after the gunman opened fire.

The assailant, a 24-year-old man, died in hospital on Monday following the incident where six people lost their lives. Among the deceased were four Polish citizens, the British national, and an Austrian woman. Additionally, fifteen people sustained injuries, including two police officers. Marchant’s family expressed their gratitude for the care he has received, saying, “We can’t express how grateful we are to the first responders, medical team, and the people of Poland for their help and care for Harry.” They also requested privacy as they support his recovery.

Also present in Krakow during the attack were twin sisters Sienna and Rimini Chapman from Northallerton, North Yorkshire. The 20-year-olds were celebrating a friend’s 21st birthday when gunfire erupted. Sienna described the ordeal as “terrifying,” recounting how their group initially mistook the shots for attempts to scare away pigeons before realizing the severity of the situation and running for their lives.

Rimini detailed the chaotic atmosphere as they sought refuge in a nearby café, which initially was unaware of the shooting. She explained that despite their efforts to alert staff to lock the doors, a language barrier made communication difficult. The sisters hid under tables for two hours, staying connected with family and following news updates until they felt safe to leave. Both expressed how deeply shaken they were, and plans for a celebratory meal were abandoned in light of the tragedy. The group decided to return to the UK shortly afterwards, reflecting somberly on the lives lost.

Following the shooting, authorities discovered the bodies of the gunman’s parents and sister at his residence. Polish officials have indicated that preliminary investigations suggest the attacker may have been motivated by far-right ideologies. The Prosecutor’s Office continues to investigate the exact motive behind the tragedy

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