Kraków shooting investigation focuses on weapons, military connections and unanswered questions
The death toll from the Kraków shooting on 7 November has risen to six, including four women and two men, according to updated Polish media reports. At least 15 people were injured, with some reports putting the figure at 17. Twelve of the wounded were initially described as being in critical condition.
The initial attack, the police response and the detention of the suspected gunman were covered in Voice of Moldova’s earlier report. New information reported by Onet has shifted attention towards the suspect’s background, the weapons recovered from his vehicle and possible connections to military organisations.
Suspect’s identity and military-style equipment raise questions
Investigators identified the suspect as 24-year-old Michał O., named in Polish media as Michał Oksiński, from Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. Police confirmed that he was a Polish citizen who had obtained citizenship in 2022, although his previous nationality was not disclosed.
The black Subaru allegedly used in the attack was registered to his 52-year-old father. According to Onet, the father legally possessed 11 firearms, while the son held permits for two. Neither had a previous criminal conviction.
Investigators reportedly recovered a military backpack, containers, a bayonet and substantial quantities of weapons and ammunition from the vehicle. The suspect was also wearing military-style clothing, a helmet and what appeared to be body armour.
Particular attention has focused on a patch bearing the insignia of Forward Observations Group (FOG), an American tactical organisation associated with activities involving Ukraine.
Founded by US Army infantry veteran Derrick Bales, FOG produces tactical and medical equipment and has publishedmaterial from conflict zones. Its representatives have previously appeared alongside Ukrainian personnel, while the organisation has supported Ukrainian forces through equipment and medical supplies.
However, possession of a FOG patch does not establish membership or participation in military operations. No connection between the suspect and the organisation has been officially confirmed. Sources cited by Onet initially suggested that the suspect might have been a former serviceman. Social media speculation also linked him to the 10th Świętokrzyska Territorial Defence Brigade.
Polish authorities subsequently stated that the suspect had never served in the country’s armed forces. Reports of a possible connection to the Ukrainian International Legion have likewise produced no publicly confirmed findings.
Facebook profile disappears as speculation spreads
A Facebook profile attributed to the suspect reportedly remained accessible earlier on Saturday but could no longer be viewed by the evening.
The reason for the profile becoming inaccessible has not been established. There is no confirmed evidence that the authorities ordered its removal or that the change was connected to the investigation. Marcin Możdżonek, chairman of the Olsztyn City Council, questioned the suspect’s apparent preparation and equipment.
“This was not a random person. He was trained, well equipped and had the skills necessary to commit such a crime. He drove a car, fired a combat rifle and knew the area.”
He also praised the police officer who confronted the attacker and suggested that the crime may have been planned.
“I am certain the coming days will bring an answer.”
Police have urged the public not to draw premature conclusions. Lesser Poland police spokesperson Katarzyna Cisłorejected reports suggesting that a second attacker had been involved.
“I do not confirm that there was a second attacker. According to our current information, there was only one.”
Other unverified claims circulated online, including suggestions that the suspect had undergone treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder. Authorities have not confirmed those reports.
National mourning announced as politicians urge restraint
President Karol Nawrocki initiated procedures to declare national mourning on 8 and 9 November, according to presidential spokesperson Rafał Leśkiewicz. The proposed decree was to be submitted for countersignature by Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
Kraków Mayor Łukasz Gibała separately announced mourning in the city until 11 November. Tusk urged politicians not to exploit the tragedy before investigators had established the facts.
“An urgent appeal to politicians of all political persuasions: do not play politics with this tragedy. We will establish all the circumstances of this crime.”
Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz said the motives and circumstances would be thoroughly investigated, while Jarosław Kaczyński called for the perpetrator to be held accountable. Condolences also came from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Verkhovna Rada Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola and other international officials.
The Kraków shooting investigation now centres on the suspect’s background, the origins of his equipment and the motive behind the attack. For now, claims of a coordinated provocation, military affiliation or connections to the war in Ukraine remain unsubstantiated. Investigators have not publicly established why the attack was carried out.
