PIRKKALA, Finland — A knife attack at a school in southern Finland left three pupils injured on Tuesday, authorities said, in a disturbing incident that has drawn renewed attention to school safety in the Nordic country.
According to Finnish police, the suspected attacker is a fellow student who was swiftly apprehended at the scene. The victims’ injuries, while serious, are not believed to be life-threatening, officials confirmed in a statement.
The assault took place at Vähäjärvi School in Pirkkala, located roughly 180 kilometers (110 miles) north of Helsinki. The school serves students from preschool through ninth grade, according to its official website.
Police said the suspect used a bladed weapon in the attack. Authorities are now examining written material allegedly published by the suspect prior to the incident, though they have yet to release details on its content or nature.
The ages and identities of the injured students have not been disclosed, but officials confirmed that parents of all involved pupils have been notified.
Law enforcement remains tight-lipped about whether the attack was premeditated or if the writings under investigation suggested a motive or warning signs. The suspect’s identity and age have not been publicly released.
The attack has shocked the small town of Pirkkala and renewed concerns over student safety in Finnish schools. While violent school attacks are relatively rare in Finland, the country has faced several high-profile incidents in the past that prompted nationwide debates over youth mental health, school security, and access to weapons.
Police said the investigation is ongoing and more details would be shared once preliminary findings are confirmed. In the meantime, local authorities have provided psychological support and crisis counseling for affected students and staff.
