Shooting Outside Örebro Mosque During Friday Prayers Leaves One Dead, Community in Shock
A shooting outside the Örebro mosque results in one death, sparking community shock and police investigations.
Key Points
- • A man was shot outside the Örebro mosque after Friday prayers, with one dying and another injured.
- • Police link the shooting to gang-related crime and not directly targeted at the mosque.
- • Witnesses reported chaotic scenes with multiple gunshots heard near the mosque.
- • The mosque community is in shock and has advised members to pray at home as investigations continue.
A shooting incident outside the mosque in Vivalla, Örebro, occurred shortly after Friday prayers on August 15, 2025, resulting in the death of a young man and injuries to another individual. Witnesses described the chaotic scene where gunfire erupted as worshippers were leaving the mosque, marking a tragic moment for the community.
Eyewitness Ranja Röyma, aged 55, reported hearing at least seven shots, which prompted her to flee in fear, likening the sound to a previous mass shooting incident. Police responded quickly, arriving at the scene shortly after 2 PM, where they found two victims who had been shot. One of the victims, a man in his 25s, later succumbed to his injuries, while the other is currently receiving treatment at a hospital.
Witness accounts indicate a distressing atmosphere as attendees scrambled to safety, with many screaming upon realizing what was happening. Mazen Muwaffak, a contact at the mosque, stated he was about 50 meters away from the shooter and heard approximately five to six shots. He underscored the urgent need for post-incident healing, expressing sorrow over the violence, "It's sad that people have been hurt. It's not pleasant to experience something like this."
Police believe the shooting is connected to ongoing criminal gang activity in Örebro, and while it occurred outside the mosque, the authorities are clear in stating it was not a direct attack on the worshippers. Officer Roberto Eid Forest emphasized that this is considered an isolated incident but encouraged anyone with information to come forward as investigations continue without any suspects arrested at this stage.
In light of the tragedy, the mosque board convened a crisis meeting to discuss the next steps, urging the community to pray at home as the area remains cordoned off by law enforcement for their safety. This sad event has left the community grappling with fear and uncertainty as they process the aftermath of the violence that marred a sacred day.