Armed Attack Unfolds Across Dual Locations in Rotterdam,Netherlands: Local Authorities Scramble as Flames and Tragedy Erupt
In an incident that has sent shockwaves across the Netherlands, multiple people lost their lives in Rotterdam, as an armed gunman opened fire in two separate locations on Thursday. Authorities have arrested a 32-year-old male suspect in connection with the shootings.
(Photo of the fire in the hospital) Shooting and fire at the Erasmus Medical Center-Image Source: X
According to Reuters, the harrowing episode began at a residential building and subsequently extended to a study hall within a nearby university hospital. Dutch police have yet to reveal the exact number of casualties, pending the notification of the victims’ relatives.
Local authorities also reported that fires broke out at both shooting locations, intensifying the state of emergency. The gunman, dressed in military attire, was apprehended at the hospital’s helipad.
BREAKING: Shooting at Holland Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam. The shooting started in a classroom with sick children. Multiple casualties have been reported. pic.twitter.com/hPuKr7A3dj
— Insider Corner (@insidercnews) September 28, 2023
Distressing footage from inside a Rotterdam hospital where a 32-year-old gunman dressed in combat gear opened fire, killing and wounding an unknown number of people and setting the facility ablaze. pic.twitter.com/2rtkGqqAGC
— Citizen Free Press (@CitizenFreePres) September 28, 2023
A large number of heavily armed Dutch security personnel, donning protective shields, swiftly arrived at the hospital, where many individuals were seen exiting the premises with their hands raised.
The police of Rotterdam, the second-largest city in the Netherlands, took to the platform “X,” previously known as Twitter, to announce they are in the process of informing the victims’ families before disclosing any further details.
🇳🇱 ALERTE – Chaos à #Rotterdam, aux Pays-Bas. Plusieurs personnes ont été tuées dans deux fusillades. Un homme armé a ouvert le feu dans un appartement, puis a fait irruption dans un centre médical voisin. Des incendies se sont déclarés. Un suspect a été arrêté (police). pic.twitter.com/MlkAAMRuJU
— Infos Françaises (@InfosFrancaises) September 28, 2023
This incident once again raises questions about public safety and gun control laws in the Netherlands, a country not typically known for violent gun crimes. The dual-location attack and the involvement of a hospital, a place generally considered safe, further add to the gravity of the situation.
While the investigation is still in its initial phase, the magnitude of the event has left the nation waiting for answers. The incident underscores the need for comprehensive security measures to ensure public safety.
