In a tragic incident on Tuesday, a 12-year-old student opened fire at the Viertola school in Vantaa, Finland, resulting in the death of one student and serious injuries to two others.
The school, located north of the Finnish capital Helsinki, is attended by children aged seven to 15, encompassing grades one to nine, and accommodates approximately 800 pupils and 90 staff members.
Ilkka Koskimaki, the chief of the Eastern Uusimaa police department, confirmed the incident during a press conference, revealing that the perpetrator, also a sixth-grade student, is in custody while the injured were receiving medical attention.
“Today, after 9:00 am, a shooting incident took place at a school… in which a sixth grader, a student of the school, died,” the NDTV quoted Ilkka Koskimaki, chief of the Eastern Uusimaa police department in Finland, as telling during a press conference. Koskimaki added that two others were “seriously injured”.
Initially, both the suspect and the victims were reported to be 12 years old. An investigation has been launched into charges of murder and attempted murder.
‘Horrifying moments’
Witnesses recounted the horrifying moments when gunshots rang out across the schoolyard, followed by panicked screams and children fleeing the scene. Images from the incident depicted a significant police presence at the school premises.
Very saddened to learn of a school shooting at a school in Vantaa, Finland. My thoughts go out to those affected, their families, students and staff at the school.
I have also expressed my condolences directly to the Prime Minister of Finland, Petteri Orpo.
— SwedishPM (@SwedishPM) April 2, 2024
Authorities swiftly apprehended the suspect, who was reportedly armed, in Helsinki without any resistance. Video footage circulated by Iltalehti captured the arrest, showing Finland police officers subduing the child in a residential area.
The day of the shooting was marked by shock and disbelief, with police urging the public to avoid the area and remain indoors as a precautionary measure. Parents anxiously awaited news about their children’s safety, with police eventually allowing them to reunite with their loved ones inside the school.
Finland Interior Minister Mari Rantanen and Prime Minister Petteri Orpo expressed their condolences to the victims and their families, emphasizing the need for support and solidarity during this difficult time.
The tragic incident also evoked memories of previous school shootings in Finland, underscoring the enduring challenges surrounding mental health and violence prevention in educational settings.
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