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Devastating Mass Shooting in Sweden Claims 11 Lives
Orebro, Sweden — A tragic mass shooting at an adult education center in Orebro has resulted in the deaths of at least 11 individuals, including the assailant, while at least five others sustained serious injuries. The incident occurred west of Stockholm, marking one of the most horrific episodes of gun violence in Sweden, a country typically known for its low levels of such crime.
Roberto Eid Forest, the police chief for Orebro, which is situated approximately 100 miles from the capital, stated that initial findings suggest the gunman took his own life, as he was discovered deceased when police arrived on the scene.
Among the injured, three women and two men underwent surgery for their gunshot wounds at Orebro University Hospital. Officials report that while they are in serious condition, their status is stable. Another woman received treatment for less severe injuries.
Jonas Claesson, the regional director of health and medical services, confirmed that two of the victims remain in intensive care. All of the confirmed victims are over the age of 18, and no additional related patients were admitted to the hospital overnight.
The educational facility, known as Campus Risbergska, serves adults aged 20 and older, offering a range of programs including vocational training, Swedish-language classes for immigrants, and courses for those with intellectual disabilities. It is located on the outskirts of Orebro, about 125 miles from Stockholm.
In the wake of the tragedy, Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer described the shooting as an event that profoundly shakes society. In a gesture of mourning, King Carl XVI Gustaf and Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson ordered that flags be flown at half-staff at official buildings and the Royal Palace.
The royal couple plans to visit the affected school district and attend a memorial service in the city, alongside government officials. Local soccer teams, Degerfors IF and Orebro Syrianska, intend to commemorate the tragedy by wearing black armbands during an upcoming preseason match and observing a minute of silence before the game.
The shooting escalated in the afternoon when many students had already left following national exams, prompting others to seek shelter in nearby buildings, while various sections of the school were evacuated.
Police chief Eid Forest noted the expansive nature of the school’s premises hindered quick searches for additional victims, as officers first believed they were under fire upon arrival due to the sound of gunshots.
Six police officers required treatment for smoke inhalation related to the incident, although there was no fire, and the source of the smoke remains unidentified.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are focusing on gathering testimony from witnesses and reviewing any available video footage of the attack. Although police have not confirmed whether multiple firearms were used, they do believe the shooter acted independently, with no prior warnings or indications of a potential attack having been received. The assailant’s connections to the school and potential motives are still under examination, with no links to terrorism established at this time.
Following the shooting, law enforcement conducted a search of the suspect’s residence, but details about the findings have not been disclosed. Officials urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified information on social media.
Prime Minister Kristersson addressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “Today, we have witnessed brutal, deadly violence against completely innocent people.” He acknowledged the event as the worst mass shooting in Swedish history and expressed the uncertain nature of the ongoing investigation, emphasizing the need for restraint in speculation.
Though incidents of gun violence in educational settings are rare in Sweden, other violent acts involving weapons such as knives and axes have been recorded in recent years.
While gun ownership is permitted in Sweden, the country’s firearms regulations are stringent. Obtaining a license to possess a firearm, even for self-defense, involves extensive scrutiny from law enforcement and requires prior application before any weapon purchase.
Licensed gun owners must carry their documentation at all times when in possession of firearms, and the laws encompass not just guns but also devices that can disperse tear gas.
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