In a devastating event, the Risbergska school in Orebro, Sweden, became the site of the deadliest school shooting in the nation's history. The tragic incident unfolded at 12:33 local time (11:33 GMT) on Monday, resulting in the loss of 10 lives, including the suspected gunman. The attack took place at an adult education center, approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles) west of Stockholm.
Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson condemned the attack, describing it as the "worst mass shooting in Swedish history." The echo of gunfire and the chaos that ensued have left a lasting impact on the community. Police are still investigating the exact number of individuals injured during the attack. Orebro University Hospital treated five people with gunshot wounds in its emergency room. A sixth person sustained minor injuries unrelated to gunfire.
The shooting sent shockwaves through the community, prompting immediate action by local authorities. Police chief Roberto Eid Forest advised the public to steer clear of the school premises.
"We don't want members of the public to go there." — Orebro police chief Roberto Eid Forest
The justice minister expressed condolences for those affected by this "tragedy" and reassured citizens that schools would be safe to return to on Wednesday.
Eyewitnesses recounted chilling scenes from the ordeal. Marwa, a student at Risbergska, described a harrowing moment when she and a friend attempted to save an injured individual by wrapping a shawl around his shoulder. Teacher Lena Warenmark reported hearing approximately ten gunshots near her study area, a sound that will likely haunt her and many others for some time.
"Being confined to a classroom with fear for your own life is a nightmare that no one should have to experience." — Prime Minister Kristersson
Ali el Mokad waited anxiously outside a local hospital, hoping for news about his relative who was studying at Risbergska.
"She thought what she saw was so terrible. She only saw people lying on the floor, injured and blood everywhere." — Ali el Mokad
"It doesn't feel very good actually." — Ali el Mokad
Police responded swiftly to reports of the shooting, locking down the area while urging residents to remain vigilant. Gunnar Strommer, reflecting on the severity of the situation, stated:
"I've never seen a school shooting of this magnitude." — Gunnar Strommer
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