New Delhi, April 02, 2024: In a shooting incident at Viertola School in Vantaa, Finland, a child has died and two others have sustained serious injuries, as confirmed by the police. All three victims, aged 12, were involved, with the suspect also being 12 years old and subsequently detained.
The shooting occurred within a classroom setting at Viertola School, situated north of the capital Helsinki, as reported by parents to Finnish media. Upon the arrival of law enforcement, the suspect fled the scene but was later apprehended in the northern Siltamaki district of Helsinki.
Police confirmed the suspect had a firearm, which was confiscated, and admitted to carrying out the shooting during initial questioning.
The shooting took place as students returned to classes after the extended Easter weekend. Prime Minister Petteri Orpo expressed distress over the incident, extending sympathies to the victims, their families, and the school community.
Viertola School accommodates 800 students aged seven to 16 across two separate sites, employing around 90 staff members.
In the aftermath of the shooting, concerned parents gathered at the school to retrieve their children, while authorities cordoned off the area where the incident unfolded.
The previous instances of school shootings in Finland in 2007 and 2008, prompted legislative changes in gun ownership regulations.
Despite being a nation of hunters and gun enthusiasts, Finland has implemented stricter gun laws following these tragedies, mandating gun owners to be at least 18 years old, although individuals over 15 can apply for permits to use others’ firearms.
Government data indicates Finland has 4.5 Lakh licensed gun owners in a population of just 55 Lakh. There is no limit to the number of guns that can be owned and the interior ministry says more than 1.5 million weapons are in circulation, highlighting the prevalence of firearms in the country.