A tragic mass shooting at Campus Risbergska, an adult education center in Örebro, has left 10 people dead, including the suspected gunman, according to Swedish authorities. Police are still working to determine the final death toll and number of wounded, as the extent of the damage has made immediate assessments difficult.
The attack unfolded around 12:30 p.m. local time (1130 GMT) on the outskirts of Örebro, approximately 200 kilometers (125 miles) west of Stockholm. Swedish police have confirmed that the suspected shooter acted alone and was not previously known to law enforcement. Authorities have not found any links to terrorism at this stage but continue to investigate the motive.
Students and faculty barricaded themselves inside classrooms as gunshots rang out across the campus. Andreas Sundling, 28, one of the survivors, described hearing three loud bangs followed by screams before seeking shelter in a classroom.
Emergency services responded swiftly, with police vehicles, ambulances, and helicopters deployed to the scene. Large sections of the campus were evacuated, while other students and staff sheltered in nearby buildings until police secured the area.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson called it “a very painful day for all of Sweden,” expressing his condolences to the victims and their families.
“My thoughts are also with all those whose normal school day was exchanged for terror. Being confined to a classroom with fear for your own life is a nightmare that no one should have to experience.”
Kristersson is set to hold a press conference alongside Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer at 7:30 p.m. local time (1830 GMT) to address the situation and provide further updates.
While gun violence at schools is extremely rare in Sweden, the country has witnessed an increase in violent attacks involving knives and axes in recent years. Campus Risbergska serves students over the age of 20, offering vocational training, upper secondary education, Swedish language courses for immigrants, and programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Authorities are currently working to identify the victims and notify their families. The investigation remains ongoing, and police have not ruled out further developments.