Austria is in mourning after a deadly Graz school shooting claimed 10 lives, including that of the attacker. The 21-year-old former student entered the school with two legally owned guns and opened fire. He later took his own life in the bathroom. As the nation grieves, serious questions are emerging about how this tragedy unfolded.
Gunman Attacked Alone with Legal Weapons
Rapid Police Response Couldn’t Prevent Loss
At 10 a.m., witnesses called the police, reporting gunshots and screams. Officers arrived within minutes, followed by the elite Cobra unit. Despite their speed, the shooter killed nine people—six females and three males—before ending his own life.
Police deployed over 300 officers to evacuate the school and secure the area immediately.
Former Student Behind the Attack
He Had No Prior Criminal Record
The attacker, a 21-year-old man, previously attended the school but did not complete his studies. Investigators discovered that he legally purchased the two firearms he used during the assault. They also found a farewell letter at his home, which suggests premeditation, though no official motive has been released yet.
Austria Declares National Mourning
Officials Express Grief and Solidarity
Chancellor Christian Stocker called this “a dark day in the history of our country.” Government officials announced three days of national mourning. Flags will fly at half-mast, and all public celebrations are suspended. A nationwide moment of silence will take place tomorrow.
Education Minister Christoph Wiederkeh confirmed that the school will remain closed. He also urged families to reach out to the national support hotline staffed by trained psychologists.
Hospital Confirms Several in Critical Condition
Seven Undergoing Emergency Surgery
Graz University Hospital reported that seven victims—five teenagers and two adults—are undergoing surgery and remain in critical condition. Emergency responders transferred others to hospitals across the region, and their conditions are being closely monitored.
Experts Say Europe Must Do More
School Safety Now a Priority Topic
Security expert Lee Doddridge highlighted the increasing frequency of attacks like the Graz school shooting. He emphasized the importance of training, dynamic lockdown protocols, and psychological preparedness. While the UK has stricter gun laws, he warned that Europe needs a more unified approach to school security.
Austria’s Gun Laws Face Scrutiny
Legal Ownership Sparks Public Outrage
The fact that the shooter legally owned his weapons has ignited a fierce debate. Although Austria enforces stricter laws than the U.S., critics argue they are still too lenient. Government officials are expected to review the legislation in the wake of this tragedy.
What Comes Next?
Authorities continue to investigate the shooting and encourage the public to upload any relevant information to an official platform. Police also asked people not to share videos or images on social media to protect the victims’ dignity and aid the investigation.
