A devastating school shooting in the Austrian city of Graz has left ten people dead, including the gunman, according to police reports. The attack occurred at Dreierschützengasse secondary school in the city’s northwest. Austria’s APA news agency stated that seven of the victims were pupils, while 28 others are currently receiving treatment for injuries in local hospitals.
The incident began at approximately 10:00 local time when gunshots were heard from inside the school. In response, authorities launched a major operation, deploying the Cobra tactical unit, a specialized force trained to handle high-risk situations including armed attacks and hostage crises. The school was quickly evacuated, and police later confirmed that the building was secure with no remaining threat to the public.
Reactions from Austrian and European leaders underscored the gravity of the tragedy. Chancellor Christian Stocker expressed deep sorrow, stating that the attack had struck “right at the heart” of Austria and mourning the loss of young lives filled with promise. Local mayor Elke Kahr described the shooting as a “terrible tragedy,” while European Commission Vice-President Kaja Kallas emphasized that children should never face violence in schools.
As investigations continue, the nation grapples with the shock and sorrow of an unprecedented act of violence in an educational setting. The identities of the victims have not yet been released, and questions remain about the motives of the shooter. In the wake of this tragedy, calls for safety and prevention are being echoed across Austria and Europe.
