Copenhagen Shootings: Suspect Killed after Fatal Attacks on February 17, 2015

On February 17, 2015, Danish police reported the death of a gunman suspected of carrying out two separate fatal attacks in Copenhagen, Denmark, on the previous day, which tragically left two individuals dead and several others wounded.

The Attacks

The initial attack occurred on February 14, 2015, at a cultural center hosting a debate on freedom of speech. The event, attended by the Swedish cartoonist Lars Vilks, who had previously faced threats for his depictions of the Prophet Muhammad, was disrupted by gunfire. During this incident, film director Finn Nørgaard was killed, and three police officers were wounded.

The second attack took place later the same evening outside the Great Synagogue in Copenhagen, where a gunman opened fire, killing Dan Uzan, a security guard, and injuring two officers. These attacks sparked tensions and heightened concerns over religious and cultural freedoms in Denmark.

Manhunt and Suspect’s Death

Overnight, Danish authorities launched an intensive manhunt. By early morning on February 15, police confronted a man in the Nørrebro district of Copenhagen, believed to be responsible for both attacks. During the encounter, the suspect opened fire on the officers, who returned fire, resulting in the suspect’s death on the scene. The police were confident he was the murderer from both shootings, based on surveillance footage and witness descriptions.

Aftermath and Reactions

The shootings prompted widespread condemnation and led to discussions about extremism and security. Danish Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt visited the sites of the shootings and expressed solidarity with victims and their families. International reactions included expressions of sympathy from various world leaders, reaffirming the importance of upholding freedom of speech and opposing acts of terror.

The incident underscored the broader European anxiety over terrorist threats, specifically concerning individuals inspired by or linked to extremist ideologies. Authorities increased security measures across the city and provided support to the Jewish community and other groups feeling threatened by these events.