Father Lech Lachowicz, parish priest of St. Brother Albert Parish in Szczytno, has passed away following a violent attack that occurred on his parish grounds. The tragic news was confirmed by local police spokesperson Sergeant Emilia Pławska and district prosecutor Artur Bekulard. Medical professionals pronounced Father Lachowicz deceased at around 10:30 a.m., as reported by the local outlet Tygodnik Szczytno on Facebook.
The priest suffered severe injuries on November 3 after an assailant attacked him at the parish rectory shortly after he concluded the evening Mass. The assault left him in critical condition, leading to his hospitalization with life-threatening injuries, including a fractured skull and brain swelling.
The suspect, a 27-year-old man, was charged with attempted murder, as authorities allege he struck Father Lachowicz multiple times with a metal hatchet. Prosecutors are awaiting medical opinions to determine if the injuries caused by the attacker directly resulted in the priest’s death, which could lead to amended charges.
The police were alerted by a housekeeper, who reportedly managed to scare off the assailant and call for immediate assistance. The parish and local community mourn the loss of Father Lachowicz, with funeral arrangements expected to be announced in the coming days.