Sweden: Several wounded in school sword attack

A man wielding a sword attacked a school in Fagersta, central Sweden, injuring several people on Friday, authorities confirmed. One individual was taken into custody by police, and the immediate danger to the public was eliminated. Initially, reports indicated that three people, including two severely wounded, had been affected by the attack. However, later updates revealed that one person had lost their life. The victim, an 18-year-old male, was shot by police during a confrontation and brought into custody.

The incident occurred at around 2 p.m. local time at the Brinellskola, a secondary school housing approximately 450 students aged 16 to 20. The school had recently resumed operations following the summer break. Upon arrival, police and emergency services, including ambulances, police cars, and a helicopter, responded to the scene. Neighboring schools and public buildings in the area later entered lockdown mode.

Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson expressed condolences, stating that the police are conducting a thorough investigation. Opposition leader Magdalena Andersson also lamented the tragic event, emphasizing that violence at schools deeply affects the entire nation. Sweden has experienced several significant attacks on educational institutions in recent years, with notable incidents including a mass shooting at an adult education center in Örebro in February 2025 and a stabbing at a high school in Malmö in March 2022.