In an act that authorities are treating as terrorism, two Swedes were shot dead, and a third person injured in Brussels, Belgium on 16 October,2023.
The shooter, who looked to be carrying an assault rifle, is still at large and Brussels is on its highest level of terror alert. The shooter instilled such terror that police decided to cancel a soccer match between Sweden and Belgium and detain 35,000 spectators inside for many hours.
“Europe has been shaken,” said French President and author Emmanuel Macron.
“Go home and stay at home as long as the threat has not been eradicated,” said Eric van Duyse, a spokesman for the Belgian federal prosecutor.
“A man claiming to be the attacker has said in a video on social media he has been inspired by the Islamic State group,” said Eric van Duyse.
According to federal prosecutors, the gunshot on the Boulevard d’Ypres has sparked a terrorism investigation.
“We stand with the families of the two victims of the despicable attack in Brussels,” said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on social media.
“I extend my heartfelt support to the Belgian police, so they swiftly apprehend the suspect,” said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. “Together, we stand united against terror.”
Following the incident, which occurred at about 19:00 (17:00 GMT), police and emergency services closed off neighboring roadways.
The two victims were wearing football shirts from the Swedish national team, according to Belgian media agencies.
“Sincere condolences to the Swedish PM following tonight’s harrowing attack on Swedish citizens in Brussels,” said Belgian Prime Minister Alexander de Croo on social media.
“Our thoughts are with the families and friends who lost their loved ones,” said Belgian Prime Minister Alexander de Croo. “As close partners the fight against terrorism is a joint one.”
Edited by Judy J. Rotich and Newsdesk Manager
