On Tuesday, February 4, 2025, Sweden faced one of the darkest moments in its history when a shooting at an adult education campus in Orebro resulted in at least 10 deaths and numerous injuries. This tragic event, described as the deadliest mass shooting in Swedish history, has left the nation grieving and seeking answers. For a country that has long been known for its high living standards, equality, and welcoming policies, this violence is a painful reminder of the reality of rising gun violence, even in peaceful nations.
The attack occurred around 12:30 p.m. local time at the Risbergska educational center, which serves about 2,000 students, offering high school diploma classes, Swedish-language courses, and vocational training. As students and staff scrambled for safety, cellphone footage broadcast on local TV showed scenes of students hiding under desks and running for their lives. The principal of the center, Ingela Back Gustafsson, described the terrifying moments, stating, “When we were out in the schoolyard, I heard a lot of shots nearby. We yelled, ‘Run, run.’ And we ran for our lives” (according to The New York Times).
The police acted quickly, launching a major operation with armed special forces swarming the campus. Several schools and public spaces in the area were locked down as the authorities worked tirelessly to secure the area and investigate. By the end of the day, it was confirmed that the suspect was among the dead. According to Sweden’s Justice Minister, Gunnar Strommer, the authorities have released few other details, including the identity of the perpetrator or their motives. “We do not think there is any terror motive behind this, but it is too early in the investigation to say,” stated Roberto Eid Forest, head of the local police (according to The New York Times).
This horrific event occurred amid a broader surge in violence across Sweden. The country, once known for its peace and security, is now grappling with an alarming rise in gun violence. According to police statistics, Sweden now has one of the highest per capita rates of gun violence in the European Union. The increase in shootings is largely attributed to illegal firearms smuggled into the country from postwar Balkan countries, Eastern Europe, and Turkey, as well as the spread of gang violence and the illegal drug trade (according to The New York Times). The Swedish Prime Minister, Ulf Kristersson, condemned the violence, calling it “the worst mass shooting in Swedish history” and adding, “Being locked in a classroom, fearing for your life, is a nightmare that no one should have to experience” (The New York Times).
In the aftermath of this tragedy, many Swedes are reflecting on the state of violence in their country. Anders Svahn, a teacher in Orebro, shared his shock, saying, “We haven’t had these kinds of shootings in Sweden before… One is very touched and affected by this. I know people who work there” (The New York Times). As a nation begins to mourn, it is a moment for all of us to pause and reflect on the rising threats to safety and peace in our own communities.
As Catholics, we know that peace can only be achieved through prayer, unity, and working toward healing. In times of violence and despair, it is essential that we turn to our faith for guidance and comfort. The Church teaches us that life is a gift from God, and the dignity of each person must be upheld, even when we face unimaginable suffering. In the midst of this tragedy, let us remember to pray for the victims, their families, and all those impacted by this violence.
A Prayer for Peace
Lord, we come to You in this time of grief and confusion. We ask for Your comfort and peace to surround the victims of this tragedy and their families. May Your healing hand touch the hearts of all those who are suffering, and may Your light shine in the midst of darkness. We pray for an end to the violence in Sweden and in the world, and we ask for Your grace to guide us toward a future of peace, justice, and love. Through Christ, our Lord. Amen.
This mass shooting serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance, prayer, and action in the face of growing violence. As Catholics, we are called not only to mourn but to actively work for peace, justice, and the protection of life. Let us continue to pray for all those affected by this tragedy and for the healing of the world.
