A deadly shooting shocked the city of Örebro on Tuesday. According to police reports, around ten people lost their lives at Risbergska School. The suspected shooter was also killed. Several others sustained injuries, and six were taken to the university hospital. Among them, four suffered gunshot wounds. Two are in stable condition, one remains in critical condition, and two sustained minor injuries.
Authorities confirmed that no children or police officers were among the injured. The exact number of casualties remains unclear as officials continue identifying the victims. The attack took place around 12:30 PM in Örebro, a city located 200 kilometers west of Stockholm.
Swedish broadcaster TV4 reported that police searched the suspect’s apartment in Örebro. The shooter was reportedly around 35 years old, had a gun license, and had no prior criminal record. However, further details have not been disclosed.
Following the attack, police sealed off the school and surrounding areas. Authorities urged residents to stay away from Västhaga, the district where the incident occurred. Inside the building, security forces detected smoke, prompting them to keep students indoors before starting a controlled evacuation.
Investigators believe the attacker acted alone. Police have classified the case as attempted murder, arson, and a serious weapons offense. However, they ruled out terrorism as a motive, according to police chief Roberto Eid Forest. Emergency services, including police, firefighters, and paramedics, arrived in large numbers to secure the area and provide medical assistance.
Teacher Maria Pegado recalled the terrifying moments during the shooting. Shortly after lunch break, someone stormed into her classroom and ordered everyone to leave. “I grabbed my 15 students, and we ran,” the 54-year-old told Reuters. Seconds later, she heard two gunshots. “Luckily, we made it out just in time.”
Outside, the seriousness of the situation became clear. “I saw people carrying the wounded out of the building. First one person, then another. That’s when I realized how serious this was.” The attack occurred on a campus that houses multiple schools for children and adults.
Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer called the incident “extremely serious” and assured that the government was closely coordinating with police. He emphasized that authorities would take all necessary steps to uncover the attack’s background.
Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson addressed the tragedy on X, expressing his deep condolences to the victims’ families. “A painful day for Sweden,” he wrote. He stressed that no one should ever fear for their life in a school. Furthermore, he urged the public not to interfere with the ongoing police investigation.
King Carl XVI Gustaf also issued a statement. He extended his condolences to the victims’ families and praised emergency responders for their swift actions. Calling it a “dark day” for Sweden, he acknowledged the bravery of those who risked their lives to save others.
