Priest Marek Pieńkowski improves after Jarosław Abbey knife attack

Father Marek Pieńkowski, who was injured during a knife attack at the Benedictine Abbey in Jarosław, has shown signs of improvement. According to an announcement from the abbey, Pieńkowski has been disconnected from a respirator, has begun communicating using short sentences, and has received Holy Communion.

The attack occurred on Thursday, September 24, 2026, when a 31-year-old Ukrainian national, identified as Ihor M., attacked clergy and laypeople at the monastery. The incident resulted in the death of 68-year-old Father Stanisław Zbojnowicz and left four others with serious injuries. One of the injured priests has already been discharged from the hospital.

Legal proceedings are ongoing. Psychiatric experts have determined that the suspect, Ihor M., requires further psychiatric treatment. A court has ordered that his temporary arrest be carried out in a high-security psychiatric hospital ward. He may face charges including murder, attempted murder, and causing grievous bodily harm.