Details about the shooter's identity and motive remained limited in the hours after the violence. Authorities have not publicly confirmed whether the suspect is in custody or whether the attack is being treated as terrorism. Emergency services responded quickly to the scene, and the injured were transported to nearby hospitals.

The market square, known as Rynek Główny, is the centerpiece of Krakow's Old Town and typically bustles with activity on weekends. The shooting prompted immediate comparisons to other mass-casualty attacks in European public spaces, though officials cautioned against speculation.

Local leaders expressed shock and called for calm as investigations continue. "Our thoughts are with the victims and their families," a city official said, without providing further details. "We are cooperating fully with law enforcement."

The attack raises fresh concerns about security in crowded public venues across Europe. Krakow, a city of roughly 800,000, has generally been considered safe, and mass shootings are rare in Poland. The country has strict gun laws, though illegal firearms circulate.

As night fell, police cordoned off large sections of the square and surrounding streets. Witnesses described chaotic scenes as people fled the area. "I heard what sounded like firecrackers, then people started screaming and running," one bystander told local media.

This is a developing story. Authorities are expected to release more information as the investigation unfolds.