When the 22-year-old suspected the perpetrator stabbed seven people in Vetlanda on Wednesday, their friend was one of those who were in the wrong place at the wrong time.
He was stabbed and taken to hospital.
In honor of him and the other victims, the friends decided to light a large heart of marshals in the square on Thursday night.
- It is a shock that this can happen in little Vetlanda, says Maria Oskarsson.
"Love must win"
In the cold, they stand with police and talk about what happened.
The police presence has since the act been increased to create security.
- We want to show our support to those affected and show that we are united.
It is inconceivable what happened, and even if it sounds cliché, love must win, says Karolina Martinsson, also a friend of one of the victims.
Several of the victims received life-threatening injuries, but the region announced on Thursday that the situation was stable for all.
- It seems that it has gone well for our friend, we hope that he recovers, says Karolina Martinsson.