SWEDEN: A tragic shooting at Risbergska School in Örebro, about 125 miles from Stockholm, claimed 11 lives on Tuesday. Police suspect the shooter is among the dead. They are still checking the school for any other victims.
Local police chief Roberto Eid Forest said that the suspect had no prior record with law enforcement and no ties to gangs or terrorist groups.
Meanwhile, teachers and students shared their terrifying experiences. Many hid in classrooms or fled when the alarm sounded. Maria Pegado, a 54-year-old teacher, recalled the chaos. “Someone opened the door and told us to get out. I led my 15 students into the hallway, and we ran. I heard two gunshots, but we managed to escape. Near the entrance, I saw people pulling out the injured. That’s when I knew it was serious.”
Students are being shifted from schools next to the site of the shooting in Örebro, which lies about 160-kilo-meters west of the Swedish capital, Stockholm.
Sweden’s Prime Minister, Ulf Kristersson, called it the deadliest mass shooting in the country's history. “We have seen brutal violence against innocent people,” he said.
Europe Reacts to the Tragedy
The attack shocked people across Europe. Leaders in Brussels expressed their anger and sadness. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said in his post, “What happened today in Örebro is horrifying. Violence like this has no place in our societies, especially not in schools. We stand with Sweden in this dark time.”
Denmark’s Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen, also showed support, calling it “a terrible situation.”
No Ongoing Threat, Says Prime Minister
At a press conference after the attack, Prime Minister Kristersson voiced concerns about the school safety. He said the suspect was likely among those killed and that police found no ongoing threat. “The police are clear. They don’t see any danger now,” Kristersson assured. “Trust the adults and teachers. I believe the children will be safe. But I understand why people are scared.”
Earlier In 2024, as many as 40 people were shot dead in Swedan, where, police said they prevented over 100 serious crimes. In the year 2023, Sweden tallied the highest rate of gun violence on per capita basis.