On February 4, 2025, a mass shooting occurred at Campus Risbergska, an adult education centre in Örebro, Sweden. The shooting resulted in 11 fatalities, including the perpetrator, and 15 injuries. The perpetrator was a 35-year-old male, and the motive behind the attack is still under investigation. Key details of the event:
- The shooting took place at Campus Risbergska, an adult education centre primarily for people who have not completed primary or secondary school. The school has around 2,000 students enrolled and offers courses at the gymnasium level and Swedish for immigrants.
- The incident started around 12:33 local time (11:33 UTC).
- Eyewitnesses reported hearing gunshots followed by silence, then more shooting.
- The perpetrator exchanged gunfire with police, but no officers were injured.
- The suspect is believed to have acted alone and was confirmed dead at the scene.
- The suspect had a firearms license and no prior criminal convictions.
- The attack is considered the worst mass shooting in Sweden's history.
In the aftermath of the shooting:
- Nearby schools were placed on lockdown.
- The area was cordoned off by police.
- Ambulances were sent from neighbouring counties, and blood donations were sent from Värmland.
- A crisis centre was set up at a local church.
- The suspect's residence in Örebro was barricaded by the police.
Reactions to the shooting:
- Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson called it "a very painful day for all of Sweden" and urged an investigation.
- Swedish Minister of Justice Gunnar Strömmer called it "one of the worst shootings in Swedish history".
- Condolences were sent by Carl XVI Gustaf, King of Sweden, as well as other politicians and world leaders.
- Official flag flying days were cancelled on the birthdays of Queen Mary and Princess Marie as a mark of respect.
- The head of the local police described the scene as "awful, exceptional" and "a nightmare".
The Risbergska school shooting is one of many school shootings that have occurred outside of the United States. A list of school shootings outside of the United States includes one in Kungälv, Sweden in 1961.
