Orebro, Sweden – At least 10 people, including the suspected gunman, have been killed in a mass shooting at Risbergska School, an adult education center in central Sweden, police confirmed on Tuesday.
Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson described the incident as the worst mass shooting in Swedish history. The attack took place in Orebro, about 200 km (124 miles) west of Stockholm, leaving multiple victims injured, some in critical condition.
Gunman Among the Dead, No Clear Motive Identified
Authorities believe the shooter, a male suspect not previously known to police, acted alone. While no terror links have been identified, the motive remains unclear.
Police initially reported five victims but later confirmed the death toll had risen to around 10. The number could increase as several people are still undergoing treatment, with at least four individuals undergoing emergency surgeries.
Panic and Lockdowns in Nearby Schools
The attack was reported at 12:33 local time (11:44 GMT), prompting an immediate lockdown at nearby schools. Students were kept indoors as police secured the area, urging the public to avoid the scene.
Local hospitals, including Orebro University Hospital, rushed to treat multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Officials confirmed that no children were among the injured.
Swedish Leaders Express Grief and Call for Support
At a press conference, Prime Minister Kristersson called it “a painful day for all in Sweden”, expressing his condolences to victims and their families. “No one should have to experience the fear of being trapped in a classroom, fearing for their life,” he said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer reassured the public that schools would reopen safely on Wednesday, emphasizing that authorities are working to ensure security.
As investigations continue, Swedish police and government officials are expected to provide further updates in the coming days.
