Helsinki, Finland – A tragic school shooting in a Helsinki suburb of Siltamaki left one child dead and two others seriously injured on Tuesday. The suspect, a 12-year-old fellow pupil, was apprehended by police without further violence. Authorities have not disclosed the identities of the suspect or victims, except for their age and nationality.
Education Minister Anna-Maja Henriksson expressed deep sorrow, emphasizing the rarity of such incidents in a country where youth gun violence is uncommon. The incident has prompted a national day of mourning on Wednesday, with government buildings flying flags at half-mast.
The two wounded students are currently receiving treatment for their serious injuries at the Helsinki regional hospital district. Meanwhile, parents were forced to wait for three hours before reuniting with their children outside the police barricade, where emotional embraces were shared.
Prime Minister Petteri Orpo described the shooting as deeply shocking and urged parents to comfort their children amid fears of similar attacks. Although the suspect admitted to the attack during initial police questioning, the motive behind the incident remains unclear.
In the wake of past school shootings in Finland, the nation has implemented stricter gun legislation over the years. While authorities address the immediate aftermath of this tragic event, the Finnish community is left grappling with the impact of gun violence on its youth.