In a heartbreaking incident that has stunned Sweden, 10 people lost their lives during a shooting at the Campus Risbergska adult education center in Örebro. The tragic event, which unfolded earlier today, is now the focus of a major investigation by Swedish authorities.
What happened?
At approximately 12:33 on February 4, emergency services were alerted to a shooting at Campus Risbergska, a facility offering adult education to individuals over 20 years old. Eyewitnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots, and the ensuing chaos left the local community in shock.
According to police updates, the suspected gunman, a man previously unknown to law enforcement, is among the deceased. The authorities have indicated that he likely acted alone, although they are not ruling out the possibility of additional perpetrators. As of now, the motive remains unclear, and early assessments suggest that terrorism is not a factor.
Emergency response and witness accounts
Emergency responders, including police and medical personnel, arrived quickly on the scene. The atmosphere at Örebro Hospital was described as somber and tense.
During the initial response, several injured individuals were taken to local hospitals. At least four victims have undergone surgery and are reported to be in stable condition. As the full extent of the casualties is still under investigation, police are working diligently to identify all those affected.
Official reactions
Swedish authorities and national leaders have expressed their profound sorrow over the incident. Notably, King Carl XVI Gustaf issued a statement of condolence:
“This evening, we send our condolences to the families and friends of the deceased. Our thoughts at this moment also go to the injured and their loved ones, as well as to all those affected. My family and I want to express our great appreciation for the police, rescue, and healthcare personnel who have worked intensively to save and protect lives on this dark day.”
Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer (M) addressed the public during a press conference, stating:
“This is an event that deeply shakes our society, something we have read about in horror in other countries, but never imagined happening in Sweden.”
He emphasized the gravity of the situation, declaring:
“This is the worst mass shooting that has happened in our country.”
Strömmer confirmed that law enforcement and emergency services are working tirelessly to identify the victims and notify their families. He also acknowledged the need for patience as authorities work to uncover the full details of the tragedy.
Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson (M) also spoke at the press conference, describing the event as:
“The worst mass shooting in Swedish history.”
Kristersson expressed his profound sorrow, stating:
“It is difficult to grasp the scale of what has happened today. What simply must not happen has now happened.”
He urged the public to allow the police to conduct their investigation thoroughly and without interference.
Additionally, Magdalena Andersson (S), former Prime Minister and the leader of the Social Democratic Party, shared her thoughts on the tragedy:
“This is a day of sorrow for Örebro, for our entire country.”
Ongoing investigation
“We do not believe there is a terrorist motive behind this, but we are early in the investigation.”
The investigation is still in its early stages, with officers searching multiple addresses and gathering evidence. While the preliminary assessment points to a lone actor, investigators are keeping all avenues open as they work to piece together the complete picture.
