In a tragic incident during Sweden’s deadliest mass shooting, Salim Karim Iskef, 28, sustained gunshot wounds but managed to video-call his fiancée, Kareen Alia, to express his love before succumbing to his injuries. Iskef urged her to care for herself and his mother before the call abruptly ended. The couple had dreams of marriage and had recently purchased a home together. He was among the ten victims of the attack at an adult education centre in Örebro, where he was training to become a nurse.
After fleeing Syria due to civil war, Iskef’s family had hoped for a brighter future. His sister reflected devastatingly on their close bond, stating, “My whole life was with him.” The attacker, found dead near the scene, was reported to have fired randomly with multiple firearms. Authorities have not determined a clear motive and have ruled out terrorism links, prompting discussions on tightening Sweden’s gun laws.
The incident has ignited discussions about firearm regulations in the country, which includes strict licensing and storage rules. Following the shooting, families and friends of victims are struggling with their loss, gathering for memorials in remembrance of their loved ones.