Uppsala, Sweden — A shooting in Vaksala Square on Tuesday left three young individuals dead, raising concerns about gang violence in the area. Authorities confirmed that a masked assailant opened fire at a hair salon in the bustling university town, prompting an immediate police response.
In the ensuing investigation, a 16-year-old suspect was arrested at his home early Wednesday morning on charges of murder, according to the Swedish Prosecution Authority. Chief prosecutor Andreas Nyberg, who is overseeing the case, stated that they are gathering evidence, conducting interviews, and examining mobile phones linked to the incident.
Authorities reported that the three victims, aged between 15 and 20, may have had connections to criminal activity. One of the deceased was reportedly under scrutiny for allegedly plotting an attack against a family member of a gang leader. Although police have not established a direct link between the salon and the victims, they are exploring the possibility of retaliatory violence.
The shooting prompted an extensive lockdown in Uppsala, including a halt to all outbound train services, as police sought to secure the area and apprehend the suspect. Erik Akerlund, Uppsala District Police Chief, emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that while the investigation focuses on one suspect, new developments could reveal additional individuals of interest.
“We are conducting a high-intensity operation,” Akerlund stated. He confirmed that officers are in contact with the victims’ families and understand the distress of those waiting for confirmation of their loved ones’ fates.
This tragic event unfolded just before the city’s Walpurgis Night celebration, a festival that attracts tens of thousands of attendees. Despite the recent violence, the local police are committed to ensuring that the festivities proceed with enhanced security measures in place. “We are heavily focused on creating a secure environment for everyone attending the event,” said Asa Larsson, the local police chief.
The latest shooting incident echoes the growing concerns about gun violence in Sweden, which faced its deadliest mass shooting in February at an adult education facility in Örebro, where ten people lost their lives. This has led to increased public scrutiny of gang-related activities and their impact on community safety.
As Uppsala prepares for the expected surge of revelers, residents express both excitement and apprehension. The juxtaposition of celebration and mourning highlights the urgent need for addressing the underlying issues contributing to such violent occurrences.