A devastating shooting in Austria’s second-largest city, Graz, has left ten people dead and at least twelve others seriously injured.
The tragedy unfolded at Dreierschützengasse High School around 10:00 local time, shocking the nation and prompting an immediate response from top government officials.
Police confirmed that the suspected gunman, a 21-year-old former student of the school, used two legally-owned firearms to carry out the attack. He later died by suicide in the school’s bathroom. Authorities say the suspect had a firearms license and was not previously known to police.
Among the dead are six females and three males, with the tenth fatality being the shooter himself. The victims include students and at least one adult. The motive remains unclear.
Chancellor Christian Stocker addressed the nation, calling the attack a dark day in the history of our country and a “national tragedy. He announced a three-day period of national mourning beginning tomorrow, with a nationwide minute of silence to be observed at 10:00 local time.
In these difficult hours, being human is our strongest point, Stocker said, urging unity and compassion during this time of collective grief. Education Minister Christoph Wiederkehr confirmed that the school will remain closed until further notice.
Interior Minister Gerhard Karner stated that investigations are ongoing and urged the public to avoid speculation.
Emergency services responded swiftly, securing the scene within 17 minutes. Authorities continue to support victims’ families and the local community as Austria grapples with the shock and sorrow of this rare and horrifying incident.
