Shock horror in Rotterdam as gunman kills three, including 14-year-old girl, in twin attacks
Deadly rampage rocks Rotterdam
Rotterdam is in mourning after a lone gunman wearing a bulletproof vest unleashed terror across two locations, killing three people, including a 14-year-old girl. The gunman first opened fire in a residential apartment, shooting a 39-year-old woman and her teenage daughter before moving on to the Erasmus Medical Centre, one of the city’s main hospitals.
Chaos and flames at Erasmus Medical Centre
At the hospital, the attacker targeted and fatally shot a 46-year-old man. Panic erupted as a fire broke out amidst the shooting spree, turning the hospital into a scene of horror. Patients and staff scrambled to escape – some were wheeled out on beds, while others barricaded themselves in rooms, holding up handwritten signs to alert rescuers.
Suspect arrested as police contain the scene
Rotterdam police confirmed fires broke out at both the apartment and hospital. Emergency crews rushed to evacuate patients, staff, and students, prioritising safety amid the chaos. A 32-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of carrying out the attacks.
“He passed through Erasmus MC after the apartment. He may have caused victims there,” a police spokesperson said. “The fire brigade is doing everything possible to get people out safely. That is priority number one.”
Nation mourns – Royals send condolences
The motive behind the shootings remains unknown, leaving Rotterdam stunned and grieving. Dutch King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima offered their support on social media:
“Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the victims of the violence this afternoon in Rotterdam. We also think of everyone who lived in fear during these terrible actions.”
The tragedy has shaken the city to its core as the investigation continues.
