Warsaw prosecutors have launched an investigation following the tragic death of a police officer during an intervention involving a machete-wielding man. The incident, which occurred on Saturday in the Praga district, has raised questions about the use of firearms by law enforcement.
Fatal Police Shooting
On Saturday afternoon, two police patrols responded to reports of a man armed with a machete near Inżynierska Street. During the intervention, a firearm discharged by one officer accidentally struck a colleague, inflicting fatal injuries. The injured officer was rushed to a hospital but succumbed to his wounds.
The Warsaw-Praga District Prosecutor’s Office is investigating the incident as a case of “exceeding authority by a police officer, resulting in serious bodily harm and death,” according to spokesperson Norbert Woliński.
The officer involved, who had been serving for over a year and had completed all necessary training, is under scrutiny. Inspector Katarzyna Nowak, spokesperson for the National Police Commander, confirmed the officer had passed required examinations.
Attacker Faces Arrest
Simultaneously, the machete-wielding suspect is under investigation. The man, already facing charges in six separate cases—including making threats, causing bodily harm, and drug possession—will likely face additional charges. Prosecutors plan to request his pre-trial detention.
The incident has sparked widespread concern over police protocols and the dangers officers face during high-risk interventions. Authorities continue to investigate both the attacker’s actions and the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting.