Attempted school shooting in Lohja: Student arrested with weapon and manifesto

Police in Lohja are investigating a suspected attempted school shooting and arson at Lohjan Yhteislyseo high school. A minor student is accused of trying to set the school building ablaze on Friday afternoon, though the attempt failed. The suspect was found with a bladed weapon, ignition devices, and a manifesto, and reportedly confessed to intending a school shooting.

No one else was injured in the incident, which occurred around 3:30 p.m. Police stated on Friday that only a few staff members were present at the time. However, reader accounts and social media suggest some students may have also been on the premises. Police are currently verifying the presence of students during the incident and the specific location within the building where the fire was attempted.

Classes are expected to resume mostly normally next week, according to school principal Panu Ruoste. The school plans to address the incident with students on Monday, offering necessary support. The police are treating the case as property destruction and preparation for a serious violent crime, and are appealing for any witnesses or individuals present at the scene to come forward with their observations.

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The investigative measures are still in the early stages.