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29 Apr 2025, Tue

Shooting in Uppsala leaves 3 dead and suspect fleeing on scooter in Sweden

Suecia


A shooting in the city of Uppsala, located about 60 kilometers north of Stockholm, Sweden’s capital, left three people dead on the afternoon of Tuesday, April 29, 2025. The incident, which occurred around 5 p.m. local time, equivalent to 12 p.m. Brasília time, shocked the local population and reignited debates about the growing wave of violence in the country. According to police reports, the shooter fled the scene on a scooter, making the search for the suspect even more challenging. Witnesses described moments of panic, with five gunshots echoing through the area near Vaksala Square, in the heart of the city.

The Swedish police were called to the scene after receiving multiple calls from residents reporting loud noises, initially mistaken for explosions but soon identified as gunfire. Upon arriving, authorities confirmed the deaths of three individuals, whose identities have not yet been released. The investigation was immediately launched, with the case being treated as a homicide. Although there is no official information about injuries, the cordoning off of the area suggests the severity of the incident. The TT news agency, one of the country’s leading outlets, reported that the police are mobilizing resources to locate the suspect, described as an individual acting alone.

The atmosphere in Uppsala, a university city known for its tranquility and cultural significance, was transformed into one of tension. Residents near the shooting site told the public broadcaster SVT they heard five distinct gunshots, followed by chaos and screams. Some reported seeing people taking shelter in shops and nearby buildings, while others described the rapid arrival of police cars and ambulances. The police established cordons around Vaksala Square, a busy area in the city center, and urged the public to avoid the region while investigations continue.

  • Key details of the attack:
    • Location: Vaksala Square, central Uppsala.
    • Time: 5 p.m. (local time), 12 p.m. (Brasília time).
    • Victims: Three confirmed deaths, no information on injuries.
    • Suspect: Fled on a scooter; identity unknown.
    • Investigation: Treated as homicide, with searches ongoing.

Context of violence in Sweden

Sweden, historically regarded as one of Europe’s safest countries, has been grappling with a surge in violence for over a decade, particularly linked to gang-related conflicts. While Uppsala is not as frequent a hotspot for such incidents as Stockholm or Malmö, Tuesday’s shooting reinforces the perception that gun violence is spreading to smaller cities. In recent years, the country has seen a significant rise in incidents involving firearms, many tied to organized crime, drug trafficking, and territorial disputes.

In 2023, for instance, Sweden recorded over 60 deaths in shootings, the highest number since statistics began being compiled in 2016. This scenario prompted the Swedish government, led by Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, to adopt tougher measures against crime. Since taking office in 2022, the right-wing coalition has pledged to combat gangs with stricter laws and greater autonomy for law enforcement. Initiatives include harsher penalties for gun-related crimes and expanded intelligence operations to dismantle criminal networks.

The Uppsala shooting, though its motive remains unclear, occurs amid this tense backdrop. Unlike other recent incidents, such as the February 2025 attack in Örebro that left 11 dead, Tuesday’s incident does not appear, at this stage, to be gang-related. The suspect’s escape on a scooter, a common mode of transport in urban Sweden, suggests they may be a local resident or someone familiar with the area. The police, however, remain cautious and avoid speculating about the reasons for the attack.

Immediate impact in Uppsala

News of the shooting spread quickly, causing widespread dismay in Uppsala and beyond. The city, home to one of Europe’s oldest universities and a population of about 170,000, is known for its academic environment and high quality of life. The attack, which took place in a central, bustling area, shattered the sense of security among residents. Many expressed shock that such a serious incident occurred in a place where families, students, and tourists gather daily.

On social media, witness accounts began emerging shortly after the incident. One resident, who preferred anonymity, described to SVT the moment they heard the shots: “I was a few meters from the square when I heard the gunfire. At first, I thought it was a car backfiring, but then I saw people running and screaming. It was terrifying.” Another account, shared with the TT agency, highlighted the swift police response, with officers blocking streets and directing pedestrians to safety.

Local authorities reinforced police presence in Uppsala, with patrols covering not only the city center but also surrounding neighborhoods. The Uppsala University Hospital, one of the region’s largest, was placed on alert to receive potential victims, though the police have not confirmed any injuries beyond the three deaths. The city’s mayor issued a statement urging calm and promising support for the affected families.

  • Measures taken after the shooting:
    • Isolation of Vaksala Square and nearby streets.
    • Deployment of police teams to search for the suspect.
    • Alert status at regional hospitals for emergency care.
    • City hall statement to reassure the public.

History of gun violence in the country

Sweden has faced significant challenges in curbing gun violence, which has intensified over the past two decades. While the country still boasts low crime rates compared to other nations, its firearm homicide rate is among Europe’s highest, at about four deaths per million inhabitants annually. Most of these incidents are concentrated in urban areas like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö, but smaller cities like Uppsala have also been affected.

One of the most notable episodes in this recent wave of violence occurred in February 2025 in Örebro, about 200 kilometers from Stockholm. A 35-year-old man, identified as Rickard Andersson, opened fire at an adult education center, killing 11 people, including himself. The attack, deemed Sweden’s deadliest mass shooting, stunned the nation and sparked renewed debates about gun control and mental health. Unlike the Uppsala case, the Örebro incident involved a lone shooter with a history of social isolation but no ties to organized crime.

Another significant case took place in 2015 in Trollhättan, when a 21-year-old, driven by racist motives, attacked a school with a sword, killing three people before being shot by police. These incidents, though rare, underscore the vulnerability of public spaces like schools and squares to acts of violence. In Uppsala, the choice of Vaksala Square as a target heightens concerns about safety in high-traffic areas.

Authorities’ response

The Swedish police acted swiftly to contain the situation in Uppsala, but the suspect’s escape complicated operations. Specialized teams were dispatched to the city, and security camera footage is being analyzed to trace the shooter’s route. The use of a scooter as an escape vehicle caught authorities’ attention, as it is agile and allows navigation through narrow streets or areas inaccessible to police cars.

The local police chief, whose name was not disclosed, stated that the priority is to locate the suspect and ensure public safety. The investigation is in its early stages, with forensic experts collecting evidence at the crime scene, including bullets and potential traces left by the shooter. The police also urged residents to refrain from sharing unverified information on social media to avoid hindering the investigation.

The Swedish government, through the Ministry of Justice, is closely monitoring the case. Minister Gunnar Strömmer, who previously commented on the Örebro shooting, reiterated the government’s commitment to combating gun violence. Since 2022, Ulf Kristersson’s administration has implemented reforms, including increased surveillance in high-risk areas, advanced police training, and collaboration with the Armed Forces in operations against organized crime.

National and international repercussions

The Uppsala shooting prompted immediate reactions in Sweden and abroad. Political leaders, including opposition figure Magdalena Andersson of the Social Democratic Party, expressed solidarity with the victims and called for more effective measures to curb violence. Andersson stressed that incidents like Uppsala “show that no place is immune” and urged a national debate on public safety.

Internationally, the incident was covered by major outlets like the BBC and Reuters, which framed the attack within Sweden’s rising tide of violence. Governments of neighboring countries, such as Norway and Finland, offered condolences and support to Swedish authorities. The Brazilian embassy in Stockholm reported no Brazilians among the victims but continues to monitor the situation.

Civil society also mobilized. In Uppsala, community groups began organizing vigils to honor the victims, though police advised against gatherings near the shooting site. NGOs focused on violence prevention, such as Fryshuset, announced plans to expand conflict mediation programs in vulnerable communities.

  • Reactions to the shooting:
    • Magdalena Andersson: Demanded stronger action against violence.
    • International media: Contextualized the attack within Sweden’s crime wave.
    • Brazilian embassy: Confirmed no Brazilians among victims.
    • NGOs: Planned prevention initiatives in communities.

Challenges for public safety

Sweden’s rising violence poses a complex challenge for authorities. Despite heavy investments in social policies like education and healthcare, inequality in some urban communities has fueled organized crime. Many shootings in recent years are linked to gangs vying for control of the drug trade, but cases like Uppsala, with an unclear motive, suggest violence may stem from other sources.

Experts note that easy access to firearms, often smuggled from other European countries, is a key aggravating factor. Despite strict gun ownership laws, the black market supplies criminals with pistols, rifles, and even grenades. Following the Örebro attack, the government pledged to revise gun legislation, but these changes are still in progress.

Another concern is the psychological toll of violence on the population. Incidents like Uppsala fuel insecurity, particularly in public spaces. Psychologists and social workers emphasize the need for support programs for witnesses and victims’ families, who may develop trauma after experiencing or witnessing attacks.

Uppsala’s profile and significance

Uppsala is one of Sweden’s most important cities, both historically and culturally. Founded in the 12th century, it is home to Uppsala University, one of Europe’s most prestigious institutions, attracting students worldwide. The city is also known for its Gothic cathedral, an architectural landmark, and its role as a hub for technological innovation.

With about 170,000 residents, Uppsala has a diverse population, including a significant immigrant community. While generally peaceful, the city has seen a rise in minor crimes, such as robberies and conflicts, particularly in peripheral neighborhoods. The shooting at Vaksala Square, a central area frequented by locals and visitors, marks a turning point in the city’s recent history.

The choice of location raises questions about safety in public spaces. Vaksala Square is a popular meeting point, with shops, cafés, and easy access to public transport. The presence of a shooter in such a busy area suggests the attack may have been planned for maximum impact, though police have not yet confirmed this theory.

The suspect’s escape and next steps

The suspect’s escape on a scooter is one of the case’s most intriguing aspects. In Sweden, electric scooters are widely used in urban areas, especially by young people and professionals seeking quick mobility. This choice of transport may indicate the shooter planned an escape route to evade police pursuit.

Authorities are employing advanced technology, such as drones and facial recognition systems, to track the suspect. Footage from security cameras at Vaksala Square and nearby streets is being thoroughly examined. The police also issued a call for residents to report suspicious activity, offering anonymous tip lines.

As the search continues, Uppsala remains on edge. Schools and public institutions have heightened security, and planned events, such as fairs and cultural performances, may be canceled or postponed. The city announced plans to work with police to assess the need for additional measures, such as installing more surveillance cameras.

  • Actions to locate the suspect:
    • Analysis of security camera footage.
    • Use of drones and facial recognition technology.
    • Anonymous tip lines for public reports.
    • Enhanced security at schools and public spaces.

Timeline of recent shootings in Sweden

Sweden has faced a series of violent incidents in recent years, many of which have marked the country’s history. Below is a list of major shootings and attacks recorded recently:

  • February 2025: Örebro shooting kills 11 at an adult education center.
  • April 2024: A 39-year-old man is shot in Stockholm in front of his 12-year-old son.
  • September 2023: Three deaths in separate incidents, including an explosion in Uppsala.
  • October 2015: Racist attack at a Trollhättan school leaves three dead.
  • March 2022: 18-year-old student kills two teachers in Malmö.

This timeline reflects the diverse motivations behind attacks, from gang conflicts to isolated acts of violence. The Uppsala case, still under investigation, may add another chapter to this troubling list.

Outlook for the future

The Uppsala shooting underscores the urgency of preventive measures in Sweden. While the government has intensified efforts to combat crime, the issue’s complexity demands multifaceted approaches. Investments in education, immigrant integration, and social inclusion programs are seen as critical to reducing violence in the long term.

In the short term, police face the challenge of capturing the suspect and clarifying the attack’s circumstances. Identifying the victims, expected in the coming hours, will also be crucial to understanding the incident’s impact on the community. Meanwhile, Uppsala residents strive to resume normalcy, but apprehension lingers.

The memory of other attacks, like Örebro, remains vivid for Swedes. Vigils and tributes to Uppsala’s victims are already being planned, with participation from religious leaders, students, and local authorities. The city, long proud of its history and serenity, now faces the challenge of recovering from one of its darkest days.



A shooting in the city of Uppsala, located about 60 kilometers north of Stockholm, Sweden’s capital, left three people dead on the afternoon of Tuesday, April 29, 2025. The incident, which occurred around 5 p.m. local time, equivalent to 12 p.m. Brasília time, shocked the local population and reignited debates about the growing wave of violence in the country. According to police reports, the shooter fled the scene on a scooter, making the search for the suspect even more challenging. Witnesses described moments of panic, with five gunshots echoing through the area near Vaksala Square, in the heart of the city.

The Swedish police were called to the scene after receiving multiple calls from residents reporting loud noises, initially mistaken for explosions but soon identified as gunfire. Upon arriving, authorities confirmed the deaths of three individuals, whose identities have not yet been released. The investigation was immediately launched, with the case being treated as a homicide. Although there is no official information about injuries, the cordoning off of the area suggests the severity of the incident. The TT news agency, one of the country’s leading outlets, reported that the police are mobilizing resources to locate the suspect, described as an individual acting alone.

The atmosphere in Uppsala, a university city known for its tranquility and cultural significance, was transformed into one of tension. Residents near the shooting site told the public broadcaster SVT they heard five distinct gunshots, followed by chaos and screams. Some reported seeing people taking shelter in shops and nearby buildings, while others described the rapid arrival of police cars and ambulances. The police established cordons around Vaksala Square, a busy area in the city center, and urged the public to avoid the region while investigations continue.

  • Key details of the attack:
    • Location: Vaksala Square, central Uppsala.
    • Time: 5 p.m. (local time), 12 p.m. (Brasília time).
    • Victims: Three confirmed deaths, no information on injuries.
    • Suspect: Fled on a scooter; identity unknown.
    • Investigation: Treated as homicide, with searches ongoing.

Context of violence in Sweden

Sweden, historically regarded as one of Europe’s safest countries, has been grappling with a surge in violence for over a decade, particularly linked to gang-related conflicts. While Uppsala is not as frequent a hotspot for such incidents as Stockholm or Malmö, Tuesday’s shooting reinforces the perception that gun violence is spreading to smaller cities. In recent years, the country has seen a significant rise in incidents involving firearms, many tied to organized crime, drug trafficking, and territorial disputes.

In 2023, for instance, Sweden recorded over 60 deaths in shootings, the highest number since statistics began being compiled in 2016. This scenario prompted the Swedish government, led by Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, to adopt tougher measures against crime. Since taking office in 2022, the right-wing coalition has pledged to combat gangs with stricter laws and greater autonomy for law enforcement. Initiatives include harsher penalties for gun-related crimes and expanded intelligence operations to dismantle criminal networks.

The Uppsala shooting, though its motive remains unclear, occurs amid this tense backdrop. Unlike other recent incidents, such as the February 2025 attack in Örebro that left 11 dead, Tuesday’s incident does not appear, at this stage, to be gang-related. The suspect’s escape on a scooter, a common mode of transport in urban Sweden, suggests they may be a local resident or someone familiar with the area. The police, however, remain cautious and avoid speculating about the reasons for the attack.

Immediate impact in Uppsala

News of the shooting spread quickly, causing widespread dismay in Uppsala and beyond. The city, home to one of Europe’s oldest universities and a population of about 170,000, is known for its academic environment and high quality of life. The attack, which took place in a central, bustling area, shattered the sense of security among residents. Many expressed shock that such a serious incident occurred in a place where families, students, and tourists gather daily.

On social media, witness accounts began emerging shortly after the incident. One resident, who preferred anonymity, described to SVT the moment they heard the shots: “I was a few meters from the square when I heard the gunfire. At first, I thought it was a car backfiring, but then I saw people running and screaming. It was terrifying.” Another account, shared with the TT agency, highlighted the swift police response, with officers blocking streets and directing pedestrians to safety.

Local authorities reinforced police presence in Uppsala, with patrols covering not only the city center but also surrounding neighborhoods. The Uppsala University Hospital, one of the region’s largest, was placed on alert to receive potential victims, though the police have not confirmed any injuries beyond the three deaths. The city’s mayor issued a statement urging calm and promising support for the affected families.

  • Measures taken after the shooting:
    • Isolation of Vaksala Square and nearby streets.
    • Deployment of police teams to search for the suspect.
    • Alert status at regional hospitals for emergency care.
    • City hall statement to reassure the public.

History of gun violence in the country

Sweden has faced significant challenges in curbing gun violence, which has intensified over the past two decades. While the country still boasts low crime rates compared to other nations, its firearm homicide rate is among Europe’s highest, at about four deaths per million inhabitants annually. Most of these incidents are concentrated in urban areas like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö, but smaller cities like Uppsala have also been affected.

One of the most notable episodes in this recent wave of violence occurred in February 2025 in Örebro, about 200 kilometers from Stockholm. A 35-year-old man, identified as Rickard Andersson, opened fire at an adult education center, killing 11 people, including himself. The attack, deemed Sweden’s deadliest mass shooting, stunned the nation and sparked renewed debates about gun control and mental health. Unlike the Uppsala case, the Örebro incident involved a lone shooter with a history of social isolation but no ties to organized crime.

Another significant case took place in 2015 in Trollhättan, when a 21-year-old, driven by racist motives, attacked a school with a sword, killing three people before being shot by police. These incidents, though rare, underscore the vulnerability of public spaces like schools and squares to acts of violence. In Uppsala, the choice of Vaksala Square as a target heightens concerns about safety in high-traffic areas.

Authorities’ response

The Swedish police acted swiftly to contain the situation in Uppsala, but the suspect’s escape complicated operations. Specialized teams were dispatched to the city, and security camera footage is being analyzed to trace the shooter’s route. The use of a scooter as an escape vehicle caught authorities’ attention, as it is agile and allows navigation through narrow streets or areas inaccessible to police cars.

The local police chief, whose name was not disclosed, stated that the priority is to locate the suspect and ensure public safety. The investigation is in its early stages, with forensic experts collecting evidence at the crime scene, including bullets and potential traces left by the shooter. The police also urged residents to refrain from sharing unverified information on social media to avoid hindering the investigation.

The Swedish government, through the Ministry of Justice, is closely monitoring the case. Minister Gunnar Strömmer, who previously commented on the Örebro shooting, reiterated the government’s commitment to combating gun violence. Since 2022, Ulf Kristersson’s administration has implemented reforms, including increased surveillance in high-risk areas, advanced police training, and collaboration with the Armed Forces in operations against organized crime.

National and international repercussions

The Uppsala shooting prompted immediate reactions in Sweden and abroad. Political leaders, including opposition figure Magdalena Andersson of the Social Democratic Party, expressed solidarity with the victims and called for more effective measures to curb violence. Andersson stressed that incidents like Uppsala “show that no place is immune” and urged a national debate on public safety.

Internationally, the incident was covered by major outlets like the BBC and Reuters, which framed the attack within Sweden’s rising tide of violence. Governments of neighboring countries, such as Norway and Finland, offered condolences and support to Swedish authorities. The Brazilian embassy in Stockholm reported no Brazilians among the victims but continues to monitor the situation.

Civil society also mobilized. In Uppsala, community groups began organizing vigils to honor the victims, though police advised against gatherings near the shooting site. NGOs focused on violence prevention, such as Fryshuset, announced plans to expand conflict mediation programs in vulnerable communities.

  • Reactions to the shooting:
    • Magdalena Andersson: Demanded stronger action against violence.
    • International media: Contextualized the attack within Sweden’s crime wave.
    • Brazilian embassy: Confirmed no Brazilians among victims.
    • NGOs: Planned prevention initiatives in communities.

Challenges for public safety

Sweden’s rising violence poses a complex challenge for authorities. Despite heavy investments in social policies like education and healthcare, inequality in some urban communities has fueled organized crime. Many shootings in recent years are linked to gangs vying for control of the drug trade, but cases like Uppsala, with an unclear motive, suggest violence may stem from other sources.

Experts note that easy access to firearms, often smuggled from other European countries, is a key aggravating factor. Despite strict gun ownership laws, the black market supplies criminals with pistols, rifles, and even grenades. Following the Örebro attack, the government pledged to revise gun legislation, but these changes are still in progress.

Another concern is the psychological toll of violence on the population. Incidents like Uppsala fuel insecurity, particularly in public spaces. Psychologists and social workers emphasize the need for support programs for witnesses and victims’ families, who may develop trauma after experiencing or witnessing attacks.

Uppsala’s profile and significance

Uppsala is one of Sweden’s most important cities, both historically and culturally. Founded in the 12th century, it is home to Uppsala University, one of Europe’s most prestigious institutions, attracting students worldwide. The city is also known for its Gothic cathedral, an architectural landmark, and its role as a hub for technological innovation.

With about 170,000 residents, Uppsala has a diverse population, including a significant immigrant community. While generally peaceful, the city has seen a rise in minor crimes, such as robberies and conflicts, particularly in peripheral neighborhoods. The shooting at Vaksala Square, a central area frequented by locals and visitors, marks a turning point in the city’s recent history.

The choice of location raises questions about safety in public spaces. Vaksala Square is a popular meeting point, with shops, cafés, and easy access to public transport. The presence of a shooter in such a busy area suggests the attack may have been planned for maximum impact, though police have not yet confirmed this theory.

The suspect’s escape and next steps

The suspect’s escape on a scooter is one of the case’s most intriguing aspects. In Sweden, electric scooters are widely used in urban areas, especially by young people and professionals seeking quick mobility. This choice of transport may indicate the shooter planned an escape route to evade police pursuit.

Authorities are employing advanced technology, such as drones and facial recognition systems, to track the suspect. Footage from security cameras at Vaksala Square and nearby streets is being thoroughly examined. The police also issued a call for residents to report suspicious activity, offering anonymous tip lines.

As the search continues, Uppsala remains on edge. Schools and public institutions have heightened security, and planned events, such as fairs and cultural performances, may be canceled or postponed. The city announced plans to work with police to assess the need for additional measures, such as installing more surveillance cameras.

  • Actions to locate the suspect:
    • Analysis of security camera footage.
    • Use of drones and facial recognition technology.
    • Anonymous tip lines for public reports.
    • Enhanced security at schools and public spaces.

Timeline of recent shootings in Sweden

Sweden has faced a series of violent incidents in recent years, many of which have marked the country’s history. Below is a list of major shootings and attacks recorded recently:

  • February 2025: Örebro shooting kills 11 at an adult education center.
  • April 2024: A 39-year-old man is shot in Stockholm in front of his 12-year-old son.
  • September 2023: Three deaths in separate incidents, including an explosion in Uppsala.
  • October 2015: Racist attack at a Trollhättan school leaves three dead.
  • March 2022: 18-year-old student kills two teachers in Malmö.

This timeline reflects the diverse motivations behind attacks, from gang conflicts to isolated acts of violence. The Uppsala case, still under investigation, may add another chapter to this troubling list.

Outlook for the future

The Uppsala shooting underscores the urgency of preventive measures in Sweden. While the government has intensified efforts to combat crime, the issue’s complexity demands multifaceted approaches. Investments in education, immigrant integration, and social inclusion programs are seen as critical to reducing violence in the long term.

In the short term, police face the challenge of capturing the suspect and clarifying the attack’s circumstances. Identifying the victims, expected in the coming hours, will also be crucial to understanding the incident’s impact on the community. Meanwhile, Uppsala residents strive to resume normalcy, but apprehension lingers.

The memory of other attacks, like Örebro, remains vivid for Swedes. Vigils and tributes to Uppsala’s victims are already being planned, with participation from religious leaders, students, and local authorities. The city, long proud of its history and serenity, now faces the challenge of recovering from one of its darkest days.



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