At least 10 people were killed, and an unknown number injured, in a school shooting at Risbergska School in Orebro, Sweden, on Tuesday. Police have not confirmed whether the shooter is among the casualties but believe the suspect was transported to a hospital. Authorities are urging residents to avoid the area as investigations continue.
Risbergska School, an adult education center that also offers Swedish language classes for migrants, was in session when the attack occurred. Local police chief Roberto Eid Forest said it’s unclear if the shooting occurred inside or involved multiple perpetrators. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson called the attack “the worst mass shooting in Swedish history.”
Witnesses reported chaos as gunfire erupted. Andreas Sundling, 28, described hearing “three bangs and loud screams” before barricading himself inside a classroom. Teacher Lena Warenmark told SVT News that fewer students were on campus due to a national test earlier in the day, but she heard about 10 gunshots.
Emergency responders, including armed police and medical teams, arrived at the scene within minutes. Authorities have not yet identified the victims or disclosed a possible motive. While no terror link has been established, police have not ruled out the possibility. Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer called the reports “very serious” and confirmed that law enforcement is actively managing the situation.
Sweden has seen a rise in violent crime in recent years, particularly gang-related shootings, but mass shootings, especially in schools, remain rare. The incident has sparked renewed concerns over public safety and gun laws in the country. Sweden has strict firearm regulations, requiring extensive background checks and licenses to own a gun. However, illegal firearms have proliferated due to rising gang violence, particularly in urban areas.
Political leaders across Sweden and Europe have expressed condolences and called for swift action. “This is a dark day for Sweden,” said opposition leader Magdalena Andersson. “We must ensure that this never happens again.” The European Commission also condemned the attack, offering support to Swedish authorities.
As the nation mourns, police investigate the shooter’s identity, motive, and possible accomplices. More details are expected in the coming days as authorities piece together the events leading up to Sweden’s deadliest school shooting.
