In a devastating incident on Tuesday, a shooting at the Risbergska school in Orebro, located approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles) west of Stockholm, has resulted in the deaths of around ten individuals, including the suspected shooter. This tragedy has been labeled by Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson as the “worst mass shooting in Swedish history.”
Details of the Incident
Authorities believe that the male perpetrator, who is reportedly among the deceased, was not previously known to police. At this time, investigators have not identified a clear motive for the attack and suspect that the gunman acted alone. Prime Minister Kristersson expressed the profound impact of the event on the nation, stating, “It is difficult to take in the magnitude of what has happened today.”
The police have indicated that the death toll might increase, as several individuals sustained injuries and were transported to various hospitals. At least four people are currently undergoing surgical procedures. Initially, police reported that five individuals had been shot, and the case was classified under attempted murder, arson, and aggravated weapons offenses. However, as more information surfaced, local media began to report a higher fatality count, and police later confirmed that the number stands at “around 10,” although they were unable to provide a precise figure regarding the fatalities. They also affirmed that there did not appear to be any indications of a terrorist motive behind the attack.
Response and Community Impact
Emergency services received reports of the shooting at the Risbergska school, an adult education center, at approximately 12:33 PM local time (11:44 GMT). The campus includes various educational facilities and primarily serves individuals who have not completed their primary or secondary education. In light of the incident, students at several nearby schools were instructed to remain indoors for their safety.
“We don’t want members of the public to go there,” warned Orebro police chief Roberto Eid Forest. The justice minister, present at the press conference with the prime minister, extended his condolences to those affected by this tragic event and reassured the public about the safety of schools, stating they would reopen on Wednesday. Gunnar Strommer, the justice minister, remarked, “[I’ve] never seen a school shooting of this magnitude.”
Local hospitals are proactively managing the situation; Orebro University Hospital has reported that they have cleared emergency rooms and intensive care units to accommodate incoming patients. They confirmed that five individuals suffering from gunshot wounds were treated, alongside a sixth person with non-gunshot related minor injuries. Notably, the municipality for Orebro County has clarified that no children are among those requiring treatment.
Teacher Lena Warenmark recounted hearing approximately ten gunshots near her classroom, highlighting the alarming nature of the attack. Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Kristersson reflected on the situation, characterizing it as “a very painful day for all in Sweden.” He expressed his thoughts for those who had their “normal school day replaced with terror.”
“Being confined to a classroom with fear for your own life is a nightmare that no one should have to experience,” Kristersson stated in a post on X.
The Prime Minister urged the public to allow law enforcement the necessary space to conduct their investigations while emphasizing there was no ongoing threat to school safety. Further updates from the police and the Swedish government are expected in the following days.