Tragedy struck in the Swedish city of Örebro on Tuesday, leaving 11 people dead. The shooting, which took place at an adult education centre, was the deadliest firearms incident in Sweden in recent years.
The incident took place at the Risbergska adult school, located 200 kilometres west of Stockholm. The institution, which provides education for those who have not completed formal schooling or failed to achieve the grades required for university entrance, is on a campus that also houses schools for children.
The shooting, according to police, was carried out by a single individual, but his motives remain unknown. At a press conference, local police chief Roberto Eid Forest said the shooter was likely among those killed. A terrorist motive is not being considered at this time.
Police reported “about 11” dead, but warned the number could rise as several people were seriously injured and are in hospital. At least four have undergone surgery.
“We know that about 11 people have died here today. The reason we can’t be more precise right now is that the scale of the incident is very large,” Forrest said, adding that the investigation was ongoing.
Worst mass shooting in the country’s history
Sweden’s Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson called the incident the worst mass shooting in the country’s history. He said:
“It is difficult to realise the full scale of what happened. Sweden has plunged into dark hours today,” the prime minister said, offering condolences to the families of the victims.
Kristersson called the day “very painful for everyone in Sweden.”
“Being in a classroom, fearing for one’s life, is a nightmare that no one should have to experience,” Kristersson wrote on X.
Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer expressed condolences to the victims and assured citizens that schools in the country would be able to safely resume operations on Wednesday.
“I have never seen a school shooting of this magnitude,” the Justice Minister admitted.
King Carl XVI Gustaf also expressed his condolences.
“It is with deep sadness and dismay that my family and I have received the news of the terrible atrocity in Örebro,” the king said.
