Tragic School Shooting in Graz, Austria Claims Nine Lives

On Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at least nine individuals were reported dead, including seven students and one adult, following a tragic shooting incident at the BORG Dreierschützengasse high school in Graz, Austria. This incident, described by local authorities as a "national tragedy," has left numerous others injured, with many requiring hospitalization. Graz Mayor Elke Kahr stated that the shooting, which took place around 10 a.m. local time, is a "terrible tragedy" for the community.

The police initially reported that they were responding to an active shooting situation at the school, approximately one kilometer from Graz's historic center. Emergency services, including special forces, were dispatched to the scene following the distress call. Eyewitness accounts indicate that ambulances were present outside the school, transporting the injured to local hospitals.

According to the Austrian news agency APA, the fatalities include several students and one adult, although some reports from Kronen Zeitung suggested that the death toll could be as high as eight, with at least ten others suffering from serious injuries. The police confirmed that a suspect was found deceased in a bathroom on the school premises, although further details regarding the identity of the suspect have not yet been released.

Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker expressed his condolences in a public statement, declaring, "The rampage at a school in Graz is a national tragedy that has deeply shaken our entire country." President Alexander Van der Bellen echoed these sentiments, stating, "These were young people who had their whole lives ahead of them. A teacher who accompanied them on their way. This horror cannot be captured in words."

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen added her remarks on social media, highlighting the symbolic importance of schools as places of hope and the devastating impact when they become sites of violence. She stated, "It is hard to bear when schools become places of death and violence."

The shooting has raised significant concerns regarding gun control in Austria, a country known for its relatively high number of firearms per capita, with an estimated 30 firearms for every 100 individuals. While the possession of machine guns and pump-action guns is prohibited, revolvers and semi-automatic weapons can be owned under strict regulations.

This incident marks one of the most tragic school shootings in Austria's history and has sparked discussions about the need for tighter gun control measures and the protection of students in educational institutions. The community of Graz, alongside the entire nation, mourns the loss of young lives and grapples with the implications of this devastating event. The Austrian government is expected to hold an emergency meeting to address the situation and consider potential legislative responses aimed at preventing similar tragedies in the future.

As the investigation continues, authorities have assured the public that there is no ongoing threat to safety in the area. Support services are being provided to the families of the victims and the students who were present during the shooting. Crisis support resources, such as Lifeline, have been made available for those in need of assistance. Further updates and details surrounding this incident will be provided as they become available.