A horrifying shooting unfolded at a secondary school in Graz, Austria, on Tuesday, June 10, 2025. The tragedy marks the deadliest school shooting in modern Austrian history. Authorities confirmed that at least nine people were killed, and around 30 others were injured before the attacker reportedly turned the weapon on himself.
Victims and Immediate Response
Most of the fatalities were students attending classes at the school. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and confusion as police and emergency responders rushed to the location. A lockdown and evacuation were quickly implemented, with students and faculty being escorted to safety zones outside the school’s perimeter . Local police secured the area soon after responding to initial gunfire around 10 a.m. (08:00 GMT), establishing a cordon several hundred meters from the buildings. Medical teams provided urgent aid on-site before transporting the wounded to local hospitals.
Shooter Identified as Former Student
Although officials have not confirmed the suspect’s identity, Austrian media outlets reported that the attacker was a 22-year-old former student of the school. Sources suggest he entered his old classrooms armed with a pistol and a shotgun, and may have been driven by a history of bullying. The attacker took his life—likely inside a school bathroom, according to the Kronen Zeitung tabloid. Police stated they were operating under the assumption that he was acting alone and had no prior criminal history.
National Shock and Political Reactions
The shooting elicited widespread horror across Austria. Chancellor Christian Stocker expressed deep sorrow, calling the event “a national tragedy that has deeply shaken our entire country,” and acknowledging the collective grief felt by all of Austria. European Union officials also responded. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas posted on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Every child should feel safe at school…My thoughts are with the victims, their families and the Austrian people in this dark moment”
Context: Austria’s Gun Culture
Austria has one of the highest rates of civilian gun ownership in Europe, with roughly 30 firearms per 100 inhabitants—mostly legal for hunting and sport shooting. While military-grade weapons are banned, permits are required for firearms such as rifles, shotguns, and handguns. Previous Austrian shootings include a deadly incident in Vienna in 2020, where four people were killed, and a 1997 rampage in Mauterndorf in which six individuals died. However, this latest attack at Graz surpasses others in its severity.
Ongoing Investigations
Authorities have not yet released the suspect’s identity or a detailed motive. Investigators are exploring his recent weapon purchases and potential behavioral warning signs. A motive rooted in revenge for past bullying has been suggested, but remains unverified . Support services have been activated for students, families, and affected community members. Counseling and psychological aid are reportedly being provided to cope with trauma.
Conclusion
Residents of Graz and Austria at large are reeling from this unimaginable loss. Vigils and memorial events are expected in remembrance of the students and educators who lost their lives. Many are demanding renewed discussions on gun laws, school security, and mental health support. Chancellor Stocker, alongside local leaders, has urged national reflection, stating that schools must remain sanctuaries of safety for every child. The hope is that a tragedy of this magnitude may prompt concrete reforms—though grief and anger are likely to dominate public sentiment in the coming days .
