Austria Reels from Deadliest School Shooting in History: 10 Dead in Graz Attack
Published on June 11, 2025 | By Today International News
Graz, Austria – The nation of Austria is in mourning after a horrific school shooting in the city of Graz left 10 people dead, including the gunman, in what authorities are calling the deadliest mass shooting in Austrian history. The attack has sent shockwaves through the country, known for its low levels of gun violence and relative peace.
According to local police, the gunman entered the secondary school mid-morning and began firing indiscriminately. Among the victims were students, teachers, and a school administrator. Several others were wounded and remain in critical condition.
The assailant, whose identity has been confirmed but not yet released to the public, reportedly turned the gun on himself before law enforcement arrived on the scene. Investigators are still working to determine his motive.
A Nation in Mourning
In the wake of the massacre, Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen addressed the nation in a televised statement, declaring three days of national mourning and ordering flags to fly at half-mast across all government buildings.
“This is a day of unimaginable sorrow,” Van der Bellen said. “Our hearts are with the families of the victims, the wounded, and everyone affected by this senseless act of violence.”
Prime Minister Karl Nehammer visited Graz shortly after the attack and pledged a full investigation. “We must understand how this tragedy happened, and we must ensure it never happens again,” he stated.
School Security Under Scrutiny
The Graz shooting has ignited an urgent conversation about school security and gun regulations in Austria. Although the country has stricter firearm laws compared to many other Western nations, the shooter reportedly obtained his weapon legally. Authorities are now reviewing whether existing vetting and licensing processes were adequately followed.
Education Minister Heinz Faßmann called the attack “a dark day for Austrian education”, promising additional funding for school safety measures and psychological support for survivors and staff.
Psychological crisis teams have already been deployed to Graz and surrounding communities to help students, families, and educators cope with the trauma.
Eyewitness Accounts and Survivor Testimonies
Witnesses described scenes of chaos as shots rang out inside the school. Students hid under desks and in closets, while others fled through windows and emergency exits. A student who survived the attack told local media, “We thought it was a drill until we heard people screaming. I’ll never forget the sound.”
Parents rushed to the school after receiving panicked calls and messages. One mother said, “I was terrified I had lost my daughter. We’re lucky, but so many others are not.”
Several students were injured while escaping and are being treated for both physical injuries and psychological trauma.
International Condolences and Support
The international community has expressed condolences and solidarity with Austria. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen issued a statement calling the attack “an appalling tragedy”, while U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the U.S. stands “shoulder to shoulder with our Austrian friends during this heartbreaking time.”
Neighbouring countries, including Germany, Switzerland, and Hungary, have also reached out to offer assistance in the investigation and support services.
Investigation Underway
A full-scale investigation is now underway, led by the Federal Criminal Police Office (Bundeskriminalamt). Authorities are combing through the shooter’s background, social media activity, and any known psychological history. Early reports suggest he may have acted alone, but officials have not ruled out broader influences.
The interior ministry confirmed that a search of the shooter’s home uncovered more ammunition and a written note, the contents of which have not yet been disclosed.
Conclusion: A Tragedy That Demands Answers
As Austria grapples with the aftermath of this unprecedented school massacre, calls for unity, accountability, and reform are growing louder. While answers may take time, the pain and grief of this moment are immediate and profound.
Graz and the entire nation mourn together — and vow that such horror must never be repeated.