Swedish police have arrested a teenager in connection with a shooting in the eastern city of Uppsala on Tuesday that left three people dead. The victims, aged between 15 and 20, were found at a barber shop, although their identities have yet to be fully confirmed, according to authorities.
The suspect, who is under the age of 18, is being investigated for potential links to gang activity, police officials stated.
“We have arrested a teenager in connection with the shooting,” police said in a statement. “We are also looking into any potential gang-related involvement.”
At a press conference, Uppsala’s police chief, Erik Åkerlund, confirmed that the victims’ ages ranged from 15 to 20, but stressed that their identities had not been “100%” verified yet.
Police responded to calls from the public reporting loud bangs that sounded like gunfire. Upon arriving at the scene, which was a barber shop named “Shalom,” authorities discovered the bodies of three individuals inside.
“A total of three people were found shot and deceased inside the hair salon,” Åkerlund told reporters.
The surrounding area was cordoned off as police launched their investigation into the attack.
Local resident Nina shared her unease over the incident, noting that it took place in a residential area, just next to where she lives. “I picked up my partner just before we drove past here. We live next door and I think there are children and young people in these areas. I find it very uncomfortable,” she said.
Sweden has been grappling with a rise in gang-related violence, including shootings and bomb attacks, in recent years.
