Nine detained after fatal attack on 36-year-old Hutnik fan in Kraków
Polish police detained nine suspects after a 36-year-old Hutnik Kraków supporter was beaten and attacked with sharp tools on Osiedle Willowe, later dying in an ambulance.
Fatal attack in Nowa Huta
A 36-year-old supporter of Hutnik Kraków died following an assault during the night between 20 and 21 August on Osiedle Willowe in Kraków. The altercation occurred in the vicinity of Stanisława Mierzwy Street, where a dispute between an isolated Hutnik fan and a group of individuals escalated into physical violence. Surveillance camera recordings obtained by Radio Kraków show the victim running from the group before falling to the pavement. Five men reached him and delivered repeated kicks and blows while he lay on the ground. The video also recorded strikes delivered with sharp tools resembling machetes, as well as the voices and shouts of those present during the attack.
A local resident alerted emergency dispatchers after hearing shouts outside and discovering the 36-year-old unconscious on the street. Emergency medical services arrived and transferred the victim into an ambulance. Paramedics conducted resuscitation procedures, but the man died from his injuries inside the vehicle before reaching a medical facility.
Police inquiry and nine arrests
Officers from the Małopolska Provincial Police opened an investigation into the fatal assault and detained nine individuals for procedural questioning. Forensic teams and detectives are analyzing the surveillance footage, which documented the confrontation, to clarify each participant's involvement. Sub-commissioner Iwona Szelichewicz confirmed the emergency response details and stated that the initial findings connect the incident to football fan environments.
Upon arrival at the scene, the witness found an unconscious 36-year-old man. Emergency services were called to the location. The man was transported to an ambulance. Despite the efforts made, he died in the ambulance. Police officers are clarifying the circumstances of this event. Findings so far indicate that people associated with football fan circles may have taken part in it.
Officers at the VIII Police Precinct in Kraków published an appeal for witnesses and anyone with relevant information. The department requested that members of the public contact investigators by telephone at 47 83 52 910, via the emergency number 112, or by email at [email protected].
- A 36-year-old Hutnik Kraków supporter is attacked on Stanisława Mierzwy Street and dies in an ambulance.
- Police detain nine suspects as surveillance video emerges and Wisła Kraków issues a statement condemning violence.
- Hutnik Kraków confirms the victim's identity as boxing section member Kuba and supporters organize a fundraiser.
Club statements and community reaction
Journalist Szymon Jadczak of Wirtualna Polska reported that individuals associated with Wisła Kraków hooligan groups took part in the fatal beating. The management of TS Wisła Kraków SA responded with a public statement condemning violence and rejecting any automatic connection between the club and the perpetrators. The club stated that using its name, colors, or symbols does not constitute representation of Wisła Kraków.
Violence has nothing to do with supporting a team. It cannot be justified by tribalism, attachment to a specific group, colours, district, or any ideology. Every attempt to deprive another person of dignity, health, or life is a denial of the elementary principles of humanity.
Hutnik Kraków identified the deceased as Kuba, known among fellow fans as Yankes, who was an active member of the club's boxing section and a longtime supporter. Colleagues and fellow supporters launched an online charity collection to support his family, describing him as a dedicated father and steadfast friend. Procedural actions involving the nine detained suspects remain ongoing in Kraków.
