Rotterdam, Netherlands – A tragic shooting incident unfolded in Rotterdam, Netherlands, when an unknown individual dressed in combat attire opened fire in multiple locations. The gunman first targeted a woman and her daughter at their home before proceeding to a university hospital campus, where he fatally shot a teacher in a classroom.
The 32-year-old suspect, identified as a university student, reportedly shot and killed a 39-year-old woman from his neighborhood, and critically injured her 14-year-old daughter. Tragically, the young girl later succumbed to her injuries. After setting the woman’s house on fire, the gunman proceeded to the university hospital, Erasmus Medical Center, where he entered a classroom and fatally shot a 46-year-old teacher. The perpetrator was subsequently apprehended near the hospital, where he also started a fire. The motive behind the heinous act remains unknown.
In a televised news conference, Rotterdam Mayor Ahmed Aboutaleb expressed shock at the incident and offered his condolences to the victims and their families. Meanwhile, Rotterdam’s chief prosecutor, Hugo Hillenaar, revealed that the suspect had a prior criminal record, having been prosecuted and convicted for animal abuse in 2021.
Videos circulating online depicted the harrowing moments as police instructed students, some clad in medical gowns, to evacuate the premises while heavily armed arrest teams arrived at the scene. The disturbing footage also showed the suspect in handcuffs, wearing what appeared to be camouflage pants. Despite the chaos, authorities stated that there were no indications of a second shooter involved.
This tragic event has undoubtedly left the city in a state of shock and grief, with many residents reeling from the impact of the senseless violence. The community in Rotterdam, as well as the broader Netherlands, mourns the loss of the victims and grapples with the incomprehensible nature of such a devastating act. As the investigation unfolds, authorities will continue to work tirelessly to understand the motives behind this reprehensible crime and provide support to those affected by the tragedy.