A 21-year-old former student opened fire at a secondary school in the southern city of Graz on Tuesday morning, killing nine people before taking his own life. A tenth victim succumbed to injuries in hospital later in the day, bringing the death toll to 10.
The shooter, armed with a pistol and shotgun, reportedly targeted two classrooms, one of which he had previously studied in.
Six of the victims were female, three were male, according to Interior Minister Gerhard Karner, with most of the dead believed to be students. At least 12 others were injured in the attack, which began shortly after 10 a.m. local time.
Authorities say more than 300 police officers responded to the emergency within minutes, while ambulances and crisis units worked to evacuate and treat survivors. Children were seen fleeing the school in panic, with some being carried to safety by officers.
Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker, visibly shaken, traveled to Graz and declared three days of national mourning. A nationwide minute of silence is scheduled for 10 a.m. Wednesday.
“This is a dark day in the history of our country,” Stocker said. “There are no words for the pain and grief that we all — all of Austria — are feeling right now.”
The tragedy sent shockwaves through the nation, a country generally known for its peace and safety.
Austrian media, including Kronen-Zeitung, reported that the shooter may have been a victim of bullying and that authorities found a farewell note during a search of his home. Police have not commented on the letter or confirmed the motive.
The suspect was found dead in a school bathroom, and officials believe he acted alone.\
World leaders offered condolences and support. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed solidarity, saying:
“We hope that their loved ones can find comfort in the company of their families and friends in this dark hour.”
A Rare but Alarming Event
Though Austria has one of the highest civilian gun ownership rates in Europe — with 30 firearms per 100 people — mass shootings are rare.
The last major gun-related tragedy was in 2020, when a jihadist attack in Vienna killed four people.
Extremism expert Julia Ebner noted the rarity of school shootings in Austria compared to the U.S., describing Tuesday’s incident as “deeply shocking.”
Authorities are combing through the attacker’s background, social media, and digital footprint, searching for clues about his motives. Police say “extensive criminal investigations” are ongoing.
