Thousands of Poles paid tribute to the victims of a deadly shooting rampage that occurred over the weekend in Krakow, with President and Prime Minister leading a solemn procession through the city's historic center on Monday night. The event marked an unusual display of unity between political rivals, as the country grapples with its deadliest attack in modern times. The alleged gunman, identified by local media as 24-year-old Michal Oksinski, died in hospital early on Monday following a shoot-out with police. Initial reports suggested that Oksinski held far-right, extremist views, but investigators are now cautious about labeling him as ideologically motivated. While no clear message or manifesto has been found, authorities have revealed that Oksinski had a yellow Gadsden flag with a coiled snake symbol in his bedroom and were examining badges attached to his military-style outfit. The victims include a Polish painter in her 50s, a British citizen, an Austrian, and several drivers of horse-drawn carriages. As the city begins to recover, many are left questioning how such an attack could happen in Poland, a country known for its safety.
As investigators continue their work, questions remain about Oksinski's background and motivations. Neighbors describe him as a loner, while authorities search his electronic devices for clues. The Swit Starachowice sports club, where Oksinski was a member, has insisted that it does not train combat firing, only shooting from a fixed point. Despite passing all necessary psychological tests, the shooting incident has prompted calls for an urgent review of gun ownership regulations in Poland. In addition to the memorials honoring the victims and police officers injured during the shoot-out, a card reading "Thank you Mr Policemen, get better soon" was left by a girl named Bianka at the site where Oksinski's car was intercepted. As the city moves forward, Krakow residents and visitors alike are left to grapple with the aftermath of this tragic event.