Myyrmanni bombing


The Myyrmanni bombing took place on October 11, 2002, in Myyrmäki, Vantaa, Finland, in Greater Helsinki, at the Myyrmanni shopping mall. A bomb exploded at 19:36 killing five immediately, including the bomb carrier. In total seven died, including two teenagers and a 7-year-old. 159 people were injured, including 10 children. 66 victims required hospitalization with the remainder treated and released at the scene. The bombing took place during the pre-weekend shopping surge late on a Friday afternoon, with 1,000–2,000 people in the shopping center, including many children who had come to see a clown performance.

Description

The bomb carrier was Petri Erkki Tapio Gerdt, who was killed in the explosion. He was a quiet 19-year-old chemical engineering student at EVTEK and a hobbyist bomb-maker. Gerdt was known to have had no notable friends. He had no prior criminal record. He was also an active member of Kotikemia, an on-line forum for amateur chemists. The moderator of Kotikemia was acquitted of responsibility in court. The explosive device was likely constructed in Gerdt's apartment. It weighed about and contained ammonium nitrate and nitromethane with shotgun pellets.

Investigation

The Finnish NBI investigated the event as six counts of murder, one count of aggravated criminal mischief and one count of an explosives offence. The case was closed in January 2003 without any indictments as Gerdt was the sole suspect. Gerdt's motive for the bombing was not ascertained during the investigation. There was no evidence found that Gerdt had links to any outside groups or to any international terrorist organizations.

Reactions

The bombing was especially shocking for Finland and the other Nordic countries, where bombings are extremely rare.

Aftermath

On October 15, 2002 a national day of mourning was held throughout Finland. Some government buildings were closed, a moment of silence was held in the Parliament and flags ordered to be flown at half staff. The shopping center was closed for repairs for nearly three weeks before re-opening later in October.

Legacy

Petri Gerdt's father, Armas, wrote the book Petrin matka Myyrmanniin about the incident.