Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said he is shocked and saddened after a British citizen was confirmed among the six people killed in a mass shooting in the Polish city of Krakow. Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband also expressed his condolences.
Six Fatalities Confirmed in Krakow Attack
Polish police commander-in-chief Marek Boron confirmed that four women and two men lost their lives in the attack, one of whom was a British citizen. Speaking at a press conference alongside Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, Mr Boron said: "There are 16 people injured including two police officers and the perpetrator himself, 11 of those are polish citizens, five citizens of foreign countries."
"There are six fatalities, four women and two men – three Polish persons, one citizen of Great Britain and two persons who are not yet identified. We are undertaking activities at the place where the perpetrator lived, so I think we will so more what those investigations bring."
Prime Minister Pays Tribute to Victims
As news emerged of a British fatality, the Prime Minister moved to pay tribute to all those affected by the tragedy. Mr Burnham said: "I'm shocked and saddened by the appalling shooting in Krakow."
"My thoughts are with the families of those who have lost their lives, everyone injured and all those affected by this senseless violence. The United Kingdom stands in solidarity with the people of Poland."
Suspect's Motive and Condition
The suspect is yet to be named, but authorities have confirmed he is a 25 year old Polish national. Polish Interior Minister Marcin Kierwinski stated that the attacker was drawn to "far-right ideology" and harboured "very radical views".
He opened fire in Krakow's main square on Saturday afternoon with an automatic weapon. The suspect was shot and wounded during an exchange of gunfire with officers before being taken to hospital for surgery, according to police.
Polish Defence Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz described Saturday's fatal shooting as an "act of terror" against the people of Krakow.
UK Government Response
The FCDO is urging British nationals in Krakow to "follow the advice of local authorities and monitor local media".
In an official statement, Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband said: "The UK Government deeply mourns the British national and other victims who have died after the appalling attack in Krakow."
"All of my deepest condolences go to the families of the victims. The UK stands resolutely in solidarity with the people of Poland."
