On Tuesday, a tragic shooting at an adult education center in Sweden resulted in the deaths of approximately ten individuals, including the assailant. As investigations are still ongoing, there is no final confirmation regarding the total number of casualties or injured persons. The extensive damage at the scene has made it difficult for authorities to provide clearer information, according to local police chief Roberto Eid Forest. This incident occurred in Orebro, situated around 200 kilometers (125 miles) from Stockholm.
Law enforcement officials indicated that the death toll could potentially increase as they continue their work. Eid Forest confirmed that the suspected shooter is among the deceased and emphasized that he appeared to have acted alone, with no prior encounters with law enforcement. Presently, officials do not suspect any link to terrorism, although a motive for the attack has not been disclosed.
The institution involved, known as Campus Risbergska, caters to students aged 20 and above, providing a range of educational programs including primary and secondary courses, Swedish language classes for immigrants, vocational training, and support for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
While incidents of gun violence in schools are infrequent in Sweden, there have been a concerning number of attacks involving other types of weapons, such as knives and axes, in recent years. Following the shooting, police executed a search warrant at the suspect’s residence, yet the findings have not been disclosed. Eid Forest noted that there were no apparent warning signs leading up to the attack, and efforts to identify the victims are currently underway.
In response to the tragedy, Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson is set to hold a news conference in the evening, alongside Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer, to address the nation. Earlier, the Prime Minister expressed his condolences, describing the day as “very painful for all of Sweden,” and lamented the horrifying experience of students being trapped in a classroom amid fear for their lives.
Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf also extended his condolences, commending the quick response of law enforcement and medical personnel involved in the aftermath of the shooting. He expressed the deep sadness felt by his family and offered support to the families of the victims, as well as providing thoughts for the injured and others affected by the incident.
The shooting took place in the early afternoon, shortly after many students had left the campus following a national examination, leading to extensive police and emergency vehicle presence in the area. Teacher Lena Warenmark noted that the campus was unusually sparsely populated that day, and she reported hearing what seemed to be around ten gunshots. Many students took shelter in nearby buildings, and parts of the school were promptly evacuated following the shooting, which began at approximately 12:30 p.m. local time.
Andreas Sundling, aged 28, described his experience of hiding within the classroom as he and others heard loud bangs and cries for help during the harrowing event.
