Three students were injured in a stabbing at Vähäjärven koulu (Vähäjärvi School) in Pirkkala, near Tampere, on Tuesday morning. According to Finnish broadcaster Yle, the suspect is a 16-year-old boy, reportedly a pupil at the same school, who deliberately targeted female victims in a premeditated gender-based attack.
Police confirm three victims and non-life-threatening injuries
Police received the alert at 10:42 am about a violent incident at the school. They confirmed that three pupils were stabbed, sustaining injuries to the neck, hand, and waist. Though not officially confirmed by authorities, Yle reports that the wounds are not life-threatening. A bladed weapon was used in the attack, and the suspect was swiftly taken into custody.
A premeditated attack driven by misogyny
According to a manifesto seen by Yle and allegedly published by the suspect prior to the incident, the boy stated that he had planned the attack for about six months, expressing a desire to carry out something “significant” and “exciting”. His goal was reportedly to go to prison for two to four years. The document indicates a clear misogynistic motive, as he explicitly stated his targets would be female pupils.
The manifesto also reveals the suspect’s sense of social isolation, claiming he had no friends and did not wish to have any. Disturbingly, he mentioned that he used ChatGPT in preparing for the attack, a detail now under scrutiny by the police. Although Yle has seen the document, they have not independently verified the authorship. Authorities are currently analysing all digital materials as part of the ongoing investigation.
Government officials condemn school violence
The stabbing has prompted strong reactions from Finnish government officials. Education Minister Anders Adlercreutz (RKP) posted on X (formerly Twitter), stating that “all violence in schools is unequivocally condemnable.”
Social Security Minister Sanni Grahn-Laasonen (KOK) also responded via X, stressing the need for adults to be present and accessible to children and adolescents, especially during traumatic events like this.
A renewed focus on school safety and mental health
The attack has reignited national concern over school safety and the mental well-being of young people in Finland. Discussions are underway about how to improve early intervention, strengthen anti-violence education, and offer better support systems to youth showing signs of isolation or distress.
Authorities have yet to announce charges or court proceedings, but the investigation continues, with police focusing on the suspect’s planning process, online activities, and psychological background.
