A mass shooting at Risbergska School in Örebro on Tuesday left around ten people dead, according to police reports. The suspected shooter was also killed. Several others sustained injuries, and six were taken to the university hospital. Among them, four suffered gunshot wounds. Two are in stable condition, one remains critical, and two others sustained minor injuries.
Authorities confirmed that neither children nor police officers were among the injured. However, the exact number of victims is still being verified. The attack occurred around 12:30 PM in Örebro, a city approximately 200 kilometers west of Stockholm.
Swedish broadcaster TV4 reported that police searched the suspect’s residence in Örebro. The alleged shooter, believed to be about 35 years old, legally owned a firearm and had no prior criminal record. However, officials have not disclosed additional details regarding his background or potential motives.
Immediately after the attack, police secured the school and surrounding areas. Authorities urged residents to stay away from the Västhaga district. Inside the building, security forces detected smoke, delaying the evacuation of students. Once the situation was deemed safe, officers began moving them out in an orderly manner.
Investigators believe the shooter acted alone. Police have classified the case as attempted murder, arson, and a severe weapons offense. However, they ruled out terrorism as a motive, according to Örebro police chief Roberto Eid Forest. Large numbers of emergency personnel, including police, firefighters, and paramedics, responded to the scene to assist the wounded and secure the area.
Teacher Maria Pegado described the terrifying moments when the attack began. Shortly after lunch, someone burst into her classroom and ordered everyone to evacuate. “I took my 15 students, and we ran,” the 54-year-old told Reuters. Seconds later, she heard two gunshots. “Thankfully, we made it out just in time.”
Outside, she grasped the full scale of the tragedy. “I saw people 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 condemned the attack, calling it “extremely serious.” He assured the public that the government was coordinating closely with police and taking all necessary steps to investigate the crime.
Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson addressed the nation via X, expressing condolences to the victims’ families. “A devastating day for Sweden,” he wrote. He stressed that no one should ever fear for their life in a school and urged the public not to interfere with the ongoing investigation.
King Carl XVI Gustaf also released a statement, extending his sympathies to the grieving families. He commended emergency responders for their swift and courageous actions. Calling it a “dark day” for Sweden, he praised the bravery of those who risked their lives to help others.