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A 12-year-old child opened fire in a classroom at Viertolan Koulu school in Vantaa, Finland, killing one classmate and seriously injuring two others before being apprehended by police Tuesday.
The shooting, which occurred shortly after 9 a.m. local time, prompted a swift response from law enforcement, who cordoned off the school and detained the suspect, reportedly found with a firearm in possession.
Authorities initially reported three minors wounded, later confirming one fatality and two in serious condition. Finnish Interior Minister Mari Rantanen described the incident as shocking, expressing solidarity with affected families.
Witnesses described the shooter as "small" and "hooded," with reports suggesting the child dropped a firearm before arrest. Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo expressed deep shock over the tragedy, extending condolences to the victims' families and the school community.
The incident reignited discussions on gun control in Finland, a country with a significant number of licensed firearms. Previous school shootings in 2007 and 2008 led to legislative changes aimed at tightening gun regulations, but challenges persist in ensuring public safety.
Police continue to investigate the motive behind the shooting, with authorities urging bystanders to avoid the area and stay indoors. The Viertola school's principal, Sari Laasila, assured the immediate danger was over, declining further comment on the incident.
The tragic event marks one of the deadliest school shootings in Finland in recent years, prompting renewed calls for stricter firearm laws to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Source: Daily Mail UK
