Tragic School Shooting in Graz, Austria Claims 11 Lives and Leaves Many Injured

Tragedy Strikes Graz: School Shooting Claims 11 Lives

GRAZ, AUSTRIA — In a devastating incident that has left the nation in shock, at least 11 people were killed and several others injured in a school shooting at the BORG Dreierschützengasse secondary school in Graz on Tuesday. The tragedy unfolded in the southern Austrian city, marking a dark chapter in the country’s history.

A spokesperson for the Graz Regional Hospital confirmed the grim toll, stating that among the deceased were six females and three males. The suspected shooter, a 21-year-old local, was also found dead, reportedly from a self-inflicted gunshot wound in a school bathroom.

Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karner addressed the media, expressing profound sorrow over the loss of life. “Nine lives were taken from us,” he said, adding that 12 others sustained injuries, with one woman later succumbing to her wounds.

The police reported that the shooter used two firearms, both of which were recovered at the scene. Authorities confirmed that only one suspect was involved in the incident, which has sent shockwaves through the community.

Chancellor Christian Stocker described the day as “a dark day” for Austria, extending his condolences to the victims’ families. “My thoughts, considerations, and deepest sympathies are with those who have suffered a loss in this terrible, horrible event,” he stated.

In a show of solidarity, the government announced a three-day mourning period, during which public buildings will fly flags at half-staff. A minute of silence is scheduled for Wednesday to honor the victims.

“Solving conflict through violence should never be a part of our lives,” Stocker emphasized, insisting that schools must remain safe havens for children to learn and grow.

Emergency services responded swiftly, with over 300 police officers deployed to the scene shortly after receiving emergency calls around 10 a.m. local time. A special task force and ambulances were on-site within minutes, ensuring the safety of students and staff.

As the investigation continues, the State Crime Office of Styria has established a crisis intervention team to assist those affected. Victims were initially taken to the nearby Helmut List Hall for emergency care before being transferred to hospitals.

In the wake of this tragedy, President Alexander van der Bellen expressed his condolences, stating, “There is nothing that can ease the pain at the moment, which the parents, the grandparents, the siblings, and the friends of those killed are feeling.” He lamented the loss of young lives, saying, “These were adolescents, who had their whole life ahead of them. This horror cannot be put into words.”

As Graz, Austria’s second-largest city with a population of around 300,000, grapples with this unimaginable loss, the community stands united in mourning, seeking solace and support in the face of such profound grief.