A tragic school shooting in the Austrian city of Graz has left ten people dead, including the suspected gunman, according to the Austrian Press Agency.
The incident occurred at the BORG Dreierschutzengasse school, where at least seven of the victims were students. Graz Mayor Elke Kahr called the event a “terrible tragedy.” Local media outlet Kronen Zeitung also reported that no fewer than ten others sustained injuries during the attack.
Styria Governor Mario Kunasek extended his condolences, saying, “As a father, I am deeply saddened by this insane act, which has caused immense suffering. My thoughts are with the innocent victims, their families, and the school community.”
Police responded to emergency calls on Tuesday morning following reports of gunfire. They quickly secured the premises and confirmed that there was no ongoing threat. All students were safely evacuated and are currently receiving assistance from a crisis intervention team alongside their parents.
Authorities believe there was only one perpetrator, who local media say was a former student at the school. Reports indicate that the attack began around 10 a.m. local time (08:00 GMT) and occurred in two classrooms.
Described by media as one of Austria’s most devastating mass shootings, the attack has shaken Graz, a city in southeastern Austria with a population of approximately 300,000.
