Tragic Shooting in Uppsala Ahead of Walpurgis Festival Claims Three Lives

SESweden|

A shooting at a hair salon in Uppsala, Sweden, on Tuesday resulted in the deaths of three young men, aged 15 to 20, just before the Walpurgis festival, celebrated nationwide on April 30. Witnesses reported that two of the victims were shot in the head while wearing barber capes, causing shock among locals as the city prepared for festivities marking the arrival of spring.

A significant police response followed, with helicopters and drones deployed to capture the suspect, who reportedly fled the scene on an electric scooter wearing a mask. A 16-year-old boy was initially arrested but released due to insufficient evidence, while six additional suspects have since been detained, with one believed to be directly involved in the shootings.

Sweden has seen a rise in gun violence linked to criminal networks, with concerns about younger individuals becoming involved in such activity. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson described the incident as "an extremely violent act," highlighting ongoing issues with gang-related crime. Despite the tragedy, celebrations proceeded, albeit with a palpable tension in the air as locals gathered around Uppsala's Fyris river.

Weekly Newsletter

Loading...

More from Sweden

Swedish Diplomat Found Dead After Espionage Investigation

A high-ranking Swedish diplomat questioned over espionage allegations has been found dead, as confirmed by his lawyer on Friday. The diplomat, whose name has not been disclosed, was detained by Sweden's security service (SAPO) from Sunday until Wednesday but remained under investigation. His lawyer, Anton Strand, stated that the diplomat had denied any wrongdoing and had filed a complaint regarding the police's handling of the case. He sought medical assistance after his release. Reports indicate that SAPO is probing a potential connection between the diplomat and the abrupt resignation of Sweden’s national security adviser, Tobias Thyberg, who resigned shortly after taking office. Previously leaked sensitive images of Thyberg had caused controversy. Police have launched an investigation into the death but reported no indications of foul play. Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard and former Foreign Minister Carl Bildt expressed their condolences, describing the diplomat as exceptionally talented. The Foreign Ministry confirmed the death but refrained from offering more details, citing family privacy concerns.
SESweden

Deadly School Shooting in Sweden Claims Ten Lives

A tragic school shooting occurred on February 4 in Örebro, Sweden, where Rickard Andersson, armed with hidden weapons, killed ten people before taking his own life. According to police, Andersson concealed three rifles in a guitar case and carried grenades and ammunition in heavy bags. Witnesses reported hearing 70 gunshots and observed Andersson deploying three smoke grenades during the attack at Risbergska school. Surveillance footage captured Andersson arriving at the school shortly before the massacre, after taking a bus to the location. Although the motive for the shooting remains unclear, authorities noted there was no discernible pattern in his choice of victims. Andersson had previously been a student at the institution but had irregular attendance and lived off family support due to his refusal to seek employment. Local residents have been mourning the victims, with vigils held to honor their memory. The police are appealing for anyone who may have seen Andersson between his arrival at the school and the commencement of the attack to come forward with information.
SESweden

Sweden Implements Bag Searches in Schools Following Deadly Shooting

In response to a tragic mass shooting that claimed ten lives, Sweden's government announced new security measures for schools, including the ability for teachers to search students' bags. Education Minister Johan Pehrson emphasized the urgency of enhancing safety protocols during a press conference on February 12, 2025. The new regulations, which are expected to be approved by parliament and take effect on July 1, 2025, will require schools to develop emergency plans for violent incidents. Access to school buildings will now be restricted, necessitating keys, door codes, or badges, while authorizations for surveillance cameras will be simplified. The announcement follows the February 4 shooting at the Campus Risbergska adult education center in Örebro, where 35-year-old Rickard Andersson killed ten individuals before dying by suicide. Police are investigating Andersson's background, noting he was an isolated individual with no criminal history who had previously attended the school. The government also plans to reform weapon laws to limit access to semi-automatic firearms.
SESweden
All Sweden News ->