OREBRO, Sweden – Authorities revealed on Thursday that the shooter responsible for the recent mass shooting in Sweden, which claimed the lives of 10 individuals, had ties to the adult education center where the tragic incident took place. The gunman, whose identity has not been officially confirmed, is believed to have had a connection to the school before carrying out the violent attack with at least one rifle-like weapon. Law enforcement officials discovered the shooter deceased at the scene alongside three guns, 10 empty magazines, and a significant amount of unused ammunition. Details surrounding the cause of death remain unclear, as officers did not engage in a shootout with the gunman.
The school in question, Campus Risbergska, offers a variety of educational programs for adults aged 20 and older, including primary and secondary classes, Swedish-language courses for immigrants, vocational training, and programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Situated on the outskirts of Orebro, approximately 200 kilometers from Stockholm, the school became the site of chaos and tragedy during the recent shooting.
Following the devastating event, local authorities described the scene as an “inferno,” with police chief Lars Wirén recounting the harrowing experience of encountering injured individuals, screams, and smoke throughout the premises. Despite the swift response of law enforcement, at least five people sustained serious gunshot wounds, with two remaining in intensive care in serious yet stable condition as of Thursday. A sixth individual was treated for minor injuries, emphasizing the magnitude of the violence that transpired.
As investigations continue, authorities have not been able to pinpoint a definite motive for the shooting, noting that there were no prior warnings and the perpetrator likely acted alone. Although the community of Orebro remains in shock and grief, residents have come together to mourn the lives lost and support one another during this difficult time. The royal family and national leaders have also extended their condolences to the affected individuals and attended memorial services in remembrance of the victims.
In Sweden, where gun violence at schools is considered rare, the recent incident has sparked widespread concern and reflection on the country’s firearm regulations. With a stringent licensing process for gun ownership, Sweden has over 660,000 registered gun owners possessing 2 million firearms, primarily allocated for hunting and target shooting. However, the tragic events in Orebro have reignited discussions on the accessibility and regulation of firearms in the country, prompting calls for stricter measures to prevent similar atrocities in the future.