A 21-year-old ex-student shot and killed 9 people at a school in Graz, Austria.
Austria was thrown into mourning on Tuesday morning after a former student stormed into a secondary school in Graz and opened fire, killing nine people on the spot. A tenth victim later died in hospital, raising the tragic toll.
Shooter Targets Familiar Grounds
Armed with both a shotgun and pistol, the 21-year-old suspect focused his fire on two classrooms—one of them a room he once studied in. The attack happened shortly after 10 a.m., leaving both students and staff in fear and chaos.
Victims, Injuries, and Panic
Interior Minister Gerhard Karner confirmed that among those killed were six females and three males. Most victims were believed to be students, while at least 12 more people sustained injuries. Children were seen running for their lives, with police and emergency workers quickly taking charge.
Massive Emergency Response
Over 300 officers rushed to the school within minutes. Ambulances and crisis teams worked to evacuate the building and assist the wounded. Officers were spotted helping students escape the terror—some carrying them out to safety.
Nation Grieves as Mourning Begins
Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker traveled to Graz where he declared three days of national mourning. A nationwide minute of silence will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday.
“This is a dark day in the history of our country,” he said, visibly shaken.
Signs of a Troubled Mind
According to local reports, the shooter may have been a bullying victim during his school years. Police found a farewell note in his home, though they haven’t officially confirmed the motive. The young man was later found dead inside a school bathroom, and authorities believe he acted alone.
World Responds to Austria’s Pain
Condolences poured in from around the world. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz offered words of comfort:
“We hope that their loved ones can find comfort in the company of their families and friends in this dark hour.”
Austria’s Rare Brush with Mass Shootings
Despite Austria having one of Europe’s highest gun ownership rates, such incidents are extremely rare. The last major one was in 2020, when four people were killed in a terrorist attack in Vienna.
Deep Search Into Shooter’s Life Begins
Experts say school shootings are uncommon in Austria compared to countries like the U.S. Police are now analyzing the attacker’s past, including his social media and online activity, as they seek to uncover what drove him to commit such violence.
Authorities say a full investigation is ongoing.
