Finnish police say school massacre planned since 2002

Police in Finland say the student who shot dead nine of his classmates and a teacher
before killing himself had been planning the attack as far back as 2002. Investigators also say they have evidence that 22-year-old Matti Saari was inspired by such events as the US Columbine High School massacre.

The rampage came just 10 months after a similar shooting at a school near Helsinki left nine people dead. Debate is now raging about gun ownership and the influence of the Internet.

One woman in the town where the massacre happened said: “Tighter gun control could be one improvement, but as long as there are sick people like this, they will get their guns from somewhere.”

Before carrying out the attack the gunman posted a video online, showing himself wielding a gun. This is exactly what the shooter had done in last year’s tragedy near Helsinki. On the clip, Saari says: “You die next.”

The police have been criticised for missing a chance to stop Saari. They questioned him about the posting of the video the day before the killing but, despite the chilling commentary, did not confiscate his pistol.

At the shooting range where the video is thought to have been filmed, members reacted with shock.

One member said it was very difficult to spot someone with mental problems. He added that hunting is a very important hobby for Finns, and it shouldn’t be seen as a bad or scary thing because of what’s happened. He says they all know how to take care of their firearms.

The Finnish Prime Minister says the country should consider a ban on private handguns altogether. This in a country with relatively liberal gun laws, and where there are more than 30 registered firearms for every 100 people. Police say all but one of the victims were so badly burned in fires set by Saari that DNA testing will be needed for identification.

Copyright © 2012 euronews