A tragic shooting at Risbergska School in Örebro left around ten people dead on Tuesday, according to police reports. The suspected shooter was also killed. Several others sustained injuries, with six people transported to the university hospital. Four of them suffered gunshot wounds. Two are in stable condition, one is critically injured, and two have minor wounds.
Authorities confirmed that neither children nor police officers were among the injured. The total number of victims is still being verified as investigators work to identify them. The incident occurred around 12:30 PM in Örebro, about 200 kilometers west of Stockholm.
Swedish broadcaster TV4 reported that police searched the suspect’s home in Örebro. The alleged gunman, believed to be about 35 years old, had a valid gun license and no previous criminal record. However, police have not released further details about his background or possible motives.
Immediately after the attack, law enforcement sealed off the school and surrounding areas. Authorities urged residents to avoid the Västhaga district. Inside the school, security personnel detected smoke, delaying the evacuation. Once the situation was under control, students were guided to safety.
Investigators believe the shooter acted alone. Police classified the case as attempted murder, arson, and a serious weapons offense. However, they ruled out terrorism as a motive, according to Örebro police chief Roberto Eid Forest. Large numbers of emergency responders, including police, firefighters, and paramedics, arrived at the scene to secure the area and assist the wounded.
Teacher Maria Pegado described the terrifying moment the shooting began. Shortly after lunch, someone burst 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 managed to escape just in time.”
Outside, she saw the gravity of the situation. “People were carrying injured victims out of the building. First one, then another. That’s when I realized how serious it was.” The attack took place on a campus that houses multiple schools for both children and adults.
Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer called the attack “a deeply serious incident” and assured that the government is working closely with police to investigate. He emphasized that authorities are taking all necessary measures to understand the circumstances surrounding the crime.
Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson addressed the tragedy on X, expressing his condolences to the victims’ families. “A heartbreaking day for Sweden,” he wrote. He stressed that no one should ever feel unsafe in a school. Additionally, he urged the public to allow law enforcement to conduct their investigation without disruption.
King Carl XVI Gustaf also released a statement. He extended his sympathies to the grieving families and commended emergency responders for their swift actions. Calling it a “dark day” for Sweden, he praised the bravery of those who risked their lives to help others.
