Swedish authorities have arrested a teenager in connection with a deadly triple shooting that occurred on Tuesday in Uppsala, a city located north of Stockholm.
The incident, which unfolded at a hair salon in the city center, resulted in the deaths of three individuals, all between the ages of 15 and 20.
The suspect, a minor, is believed to have fled the scene on an electric scooter shortly after the attack, prompting a significant manhunt. Police confirmed the arrest on Wednesday, though they have not yet fully confirmed the identities of the victims. Local media reports indicate that one of the deceased was previously known to law enforcement and had been involved in an investigation related to gang violence, though they were never formally charged.
Swedish media have speculated that the shooting may be linked to ongoing gang activity in the region. This possibility is heightened by the involvement of one of the victims, who was allegedly connected to a police investigation concerning an attack against a relative of notorious gang leader Ismail Abdo, also known as “the strawberry.” Abdo’s gang activities have been a focal point in the country’s battle with rising gang-related violence. His mother was tragically murdered in Uppsala in 2023, marking a violent escalation in Sweden’s gang wars.
The shooting also coincided with heightened public concern over gang violence in Sweden, particularly involving younger individuals. Reports have shown that gang-related crime, including deadly shootings, has surged in recent years, particularly among teenagers. Sweden is currently grappling with one of the highest rates of gun violence per capita in the European Union. In response, the Swedish government has proposed stricter measures, including legislation that would allow police to wiretap minors and tighter gun control laws.
The timing of the shooting is notable, as it occurred just one day before the Walpurgis spring festival, an annual event in Uppsala that draws large crowds for celebrations. Despite the tragic events, local authorities have reassured the public that the celebrations would proceed as planned, though there would be an increased police presence throughout the city. Police have urged attendees to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
Witnesses to the shooting described a scene of chaos as gunshots rang out. One witness reported hearing multiple loud bangs, initially mistaken for fireworks, while others saw emergency services rush to the scene in response to the violence.
Authorities have yet to clarify the full motives behind the attack, though the connection to gang violence remains a significant line of inquiry. The investigation continues as police gather further evidence and interrogate several individuals, including the arrested suspect. While the incident has sparked alarm over gang-related violence in Sweden, local authorities have emphasized that the attack appears to be an isolated event, not linked to the forthcoming Walpurgis festivities.
With input from CNN, BBC, and the Guardian.
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