Tragedy Strikes Finnish School: Child Shoots Classmates Amid Bullying Crisis
April 4, 2024A 12-year-old in Vantaa, Finland, shot and killed a classmate, injuring two others, with bullying as the reported motive.
The young shooter is below Finland's age of criminal liability and will be referred to social services instead of facing charges.
The firearm used in the shooting came from a relative, prompting an investigation into firearms offences.
The tragedy has reignited discussions on bullying, its effects on children, and the debate over the age of criminal responsibility.
Despite tightened gun laws following past school shootings, gun culture remains prevalent in Finland.
Efforts are being concentrated on supporting the affected students and improving preventive measures against future incidents.
Summary based on 22 sources
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Sources
BBC News • Apr 3, 2024
Viertola school shooting: Country mourns after child killedThe Guardian • Apr 3, 2024
Finnish school shooting suspect motivated by bullying, police say