Wed Feb 05 18:51:57 IST 2025: **Sweden Mourns After Mass Shooting at Adult Education Center; Death Toll May Rise**

Örebro, Sweden – A mass shooting at the Risbergska School, an adult education center in Örebro, Sweden, has left at least 11 people dead, including the attacker, police confirmed Wednesday. The death toll, however, may unfortunately rise, as several individuals remain hospitalized with gunshot wounds, some in critical condition.

The attack, which occurred Tuesday afternoon, unfolded rapidly. Witnesses described hearing rapid gunfire and recounted scenes of panic and chaos as students and teachers fled or barricaded themselves in classrooms. One teacher, Maria Pegado, described witnessing injured individuals being dragged from the building.

Police have identified a 35-year-old man as the suspected attacker, who was found dead at the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. While the motive remains under investigation, police believe he acted alone and had no known connections to gangs or terrorist organizations. Reports suggest the attacker possessed a hunting license and used a hunting weapon. Relatives described him as a recluse.

Six individuals were transported to the local university hospital with gunshot wounds; five of these individuals are being treated for gunshot wounds, while two remain in intensive care. Police spokesperson Fredrik Svedemyr stated that the lack of complete information on injuries means there is a risk that the death toll will increase.

Swedish Prime Minister Kristersson described the incident as the worst mass shooting in the country’s history, highlighting a recent uptick in gun violence linked to gang activity. While shootings were once rare in Sweden, the nation experienced 296 shootings in 2024, resulting in 44 deaths and 66 injuries. This follows a record high of 391 shootings in 2022.

The incident has prompted international expressions of sympathy, including from European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who offered condolences and support to the people of Sweden. The investigation into the motive and circumstances surrounding the shooting continues.

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