A 16-year-old suspect has been detained by police following a fatal shooting that left three people dead in the Swedish city of Uppsala, authorities have confirmed.
The triple homicide occurred on Tuesday, sparking a murder investigation led by Swedish prosecutors. Witnesses reported hearing five gunshots and described scenes of panic as people ran for cover in the area.
A spokesperson for the Swedish Prosecution Authority said:
“A 16-year-old has been taken into custody on suspicion of murder following a shooting incident in Uppsala. The investigation is ongoing, and further updates will be provided.”
Area in Shock as Police Investigate Motive
Local authorities have yet to release the identities of the victims or the motive behind the attack. The shooting has shocked the relatively peaceful university city of Uppsala, located north of Stockholm, which has seen a rise in gun-related violence in recent years.
Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene, but three people were pronounced dead shortly after the incident. Forensic teams remain at the location, and police have sealed off surrounding streets as investigations continue.
Gun Violence in Sweden on the Rise
Sweden has been grappling with increasing gun violence, particularly involving young offenders and gang-related activity. In response, the Swedish government has pledged to strengthen firearm regulations, increase policing efforts, and implement youth crime prevention strategies.
While it remains unclear if this latest incident is gang-related, officials have expressed growing concern over the involvement of minors in violent crime.