On February 4, 2025, Sweden faced its worst mass shooting in history when a gunman opened fire at Campus Risbergska, an adult education center in Örebro. The attack left 11 people dead, including the shooter, and several others wounded. The tragedy has sent shock through the country, raising concerns about safety in public.
The shooting took place around midday, just as students were finishing a national exam and exiting the building. Witnesses say the35 year old gunman entered the campus armed with an automatic weapon and began randomly shooting. Panic broke out as students and staff ran for cover. Some managed to escape, while others locked themselves inside classrooms or hid under desks.
Emergency services arrived within minutes with armed police officers storming the building. However, by the time they reached the suspect, he had already turned the gun on himself. The attack lasted under 10 minutes but left behind a devastating scene.
Authorities confirmed that 11 people were killed, including the shooter. Five others were critically injured and transported to Örebro University Hospital for treatment. Among those killed were students, faculty members, and a security guard who tried to stop the gunman.
The suspect has been identified as a 35-year-old Swedish citizen who had no previous criminal record. Police say he was not on any watchlists and there is no indication that the attack was linked to terrorism. Investigators are currently looking into his mental health history and any possible motives for the attack. So far, there is no clear explanation.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson called the attack “a national tragedy” and the deadliest act of mass violence in Sweden’s modern history. He extended his condolences to the victims’ families and assured the public that authorities would conduct a full investigation.
King Carl XVI Gustaf also released a statement expressing his sorrow, saying, “The royal family is deeply saddened by this senseless loss of life. Our thoughts are with the families, the survivors, and the entire Örebro community.”
The attack has left the city of Örebro in shock. Schools in the area were immediately placed on lockdown and residents were urged to stay indoors until authorities declared the area safe. A candlelight vigil is being planned in memory of the victims, and grief counselors are being provided for students and families affected by the tragedy.
As investigators work to piece together what led to this horrific event, the shooting has reignited discussions about gun control and public safety in Sweden. While mass shootings are rare in the country, this incident has raised concerns about security in schools and other public spaces. We unfortunately experience incidents like this in the United states more commonly
For now the focus remains on supporting the victims, their families, and the community as they try to heal from this unimaginable tragedy.
