Prominent Krakow Attorney Killed in Hit-and-Run by Intoxicated Driver

On June 14, 79-year-old attorney Jerzy Sioła died after being struck by a Mercedes on a marked crosswalk in Krakow; the driver, who fled the scene, was apprehended while under the influence.

The Incident and Victim

The accident occurred around 10:30 PM on June 14 at the intersection of Dietla and Sukiennicza streets. Jerzy Sioła was crossing at a marked pedestrian crossing when he was hit by a vehicle. The driver did not stop to render aid and fled the scene. Despite receiving first aid from witnesses and undergoing treatment in the hospital, the 79-year-old lawyer could not be saved.

Jerzy Sioła was a long-time member of the Krakow Bar Association, practicing since 1983 and running an individual law office on Mogilska Street. He handled civil, criminal, and family cases, representing clients in courts and preparatory proceedings.

Police Investigation and Arrest

Krakow police identified the driver as a 47-year-old Ukrainian national. He was tracked to an apartment in the Ruczaj district, where officers had to force entry with the assistance of firefighters. A preliminary test confirmed he was intoxicated; he later refused a breathalyzer test, leading to a blood draw which also indicated the presence of amphetamines.

At the prosecutor’s request, the court has ordered the suspect to be held in temporary detention for three months. A 46-year-old female passenger who fled the scene after the crash was later located in Sandomierz County; her role in the event is currently under investigation.

Legal Consequences

The charges against the driver are expected to be upgraded following the victim’s death. Initially charged with causing a traffic accident resulting in serious bodily injury, the suspect now faces more severe penalties for causing a fatal accident while under the influence of alcohol or drugs and fleeing the scene. He could face up to 20 years in prison.