28 August 1940 | The Germans murdered in Auschwitz a Polish priest Leon Poeplau.

During the war, Fr. Poeplau refused to sign the German Volksliste. He was arrested for his activities in the resistance.

He was incarcerated in Auschwitz on 15 August 1940.

He was murdered in front of other prisoners for stepping out of the ranks during a roll call to offer priestly service to the dying, disregarding the beatings of the guards.

Most likely the first priest killed in Auschwitz.