Swedish police have confirmed that around 10 people were killed in a mass shooting at a school in central Sweden on Wednesday, with the suspect believed to be among the deceased.
The attack took place at a school campus in the city of Örebro, where several others were injured when the suspect opened fire, regional police chief Roberto Eid Forest told Reuters. Authorities are currently investigating the gunman’s motive.
Earlier in the day, police had warned of a “serious violent crime” and launched an operation in the city center. Officers received the first emergency call at approximately 12:30 p.m. local time, Forest said.
According to Jonas Claesson, director of the regional health authority, six people were taken to the local university hospital, including five with gunshot wounds. Four have undergone surgery, with two in stable condition.
Police confirmed that there was an exchange of gunfire between officers and the suspect. The exact number of injured individuals remains unclear, but no law enforcement officers were reported among the casualties. Authorities have urged the public to stay indoors and avoid the area.
The incident comes amid Sweden’s ongoing struggle with rising gun violence. In 2024, at least 40 people were shot dead in the country, with police claiming to have prevented more than 100 serious crimes that year. Sweden recorded the highest rate of gun violence per capita in Europe in 2023.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson has called for a thorough investigation into the tragedy.
“I am deeply saddened by the terrible violence in Örebro. My deepest condolences to those affected and their families. This is a very sad day for all of Sweden,” he stated.
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Source: Vietnam Insider