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Boy prepares hit list before shooting incident at Viertola School in Vantaa

Thursday 24th 2024 on 15:18 in  
Finland

A 12-year-old boy suspected of shooting classmates at Viertola School in Vantaa had prepared a hit list of 15 names, according to material released by police on Thursday. Prior to the incident, the suspect had watched documentaries about previous school shootings, including the 2008 Kauhajoki shooting and the 2007 Jokela school shooting.

Professor Riittakerttu Kaltiala from the University of Tampere, who specializes in youth psychiatry, commented on the disturbing trend of young individuals replicating acts of violence that occurred before their birth. She noted that such stories remain available online indefinitely, making perpetrators seem like “immortal celebrities.”

Kaltiala pointed out the suspect’s notably young age, which stands out in an otherwise repetitive narrative surrounding school shootings in the 21st century. Research shows that perpetrators often feel marginalized and deprived of respect in social circles that are important to them.

The suspect has claimed he was bullied, but police found no evidence to suggest that his chosen victims had mistreated him. Kaltiala explained that a gradual build-up in the perpetrator’s mind may lead him to justify his actions as a proper solution.

The police suspect the boy of murder and two attempted murders, but given his age, the case will not proceed to prosecution. However, victims and their families may seek damages.

In interviews, the suspect expressed understanding of his actions and has shown remorse during the investigation. Kaltiala emphasized that while a plan may take time to develop, the feelings of horror can arise once harm is done, contrasting the fantasy of the act against its stark reality.

Finally, she stressed that identifying potential school shooters is highly challenging, and prevention should focus on creating a sense of belonging and meaningful activities for youth.

Source 
(via yle.fi)