A tragic shooting unfolded at the Risbergska School for adult education in Örebro, Sweden, claiming at least ten lives, including the suspected perpetrator. The incident occurred on a typically quiet campus that hosts multiple educational institutions. On the day of the shooting, many students had already departed after completing a national exam. The police received the first call about the shooting at approximately 12:30 p.m. local time (6:30 a.m. ET), prompting an immediate and robust response.
The Risbergska School, located in central Sweden about 160 kilometers (100 miles) west of Stockholm, was the scene of chaos as police engaged in a gunfight with the suspected shooter. According to police spokesperson Lars Hedlin, this exchange of gunfire was part of a swift action taken by law enforcement to neutralize the threat.
"We heard three bangs and loud screams," said Andreas Sundling, 28, a witness to the harrowing events.
In total, six individuals were transported to a nearby university hospital. Among them, five had sustained gunshot wounds. Medical staff performed surgery on four of the injured, with two individuals reported to be in stable condition. The school's atmosphere turned from a place of learning to one of terror as students and staff were caught in the crossfire.
"Now we’re sitting here waiting to be evacuated from the school. The information we have received is that we should sit and wait," added Andreas Sundling.
Authorities quickly identified the suspected shooter as a possible lone perpetrator in this horrifying event.
"We think he is a lone perpetrator," stated Roberto Eid Forest, the head of the city’s police district.
The Swedish government is actively monitoring the situation, with Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson closely following developments and calling for a thorough investigation into the events.
"My thoughts are also with all those whose normal school day was replaced with terror. Being confined to a classroom with fear for your own life is a nightmare that no one should have to experience," expressed Ulf Kristersson.
The Risbergska School provides courses for adult learners aged 20 and over, including immigrants and those pursuing vocational training. The incident has left the community in shock as they grapple with an event deemed both "terrible" and "exceptional" by law enforcement officials.
"It’s a terrible event, it’s exceptional – a nightmare," remarked Roberto Eid Forest.
In response to this unprecedented tragedy, police operations remain ongoing as they seek to understand the motives behind the attack and ensure the safety of all those involved. The government continues to work in tandem with law enforcement to resolve the situation and provide support to those affected.
