In a tragic incident near Graz, Austria, nine students aged 14 to 17, including one with Polish citizenship, and a teacher lost their lives in a school shooting committed by a former student. Authorities discovered a farewell letter, a non-functional pipe bomb, and plans for further attacks during a search of the assailant’s home, but the motive remains unclear.
The shooting, described as the deadliest in Austria since World War II, left another 11 individuals injured, and the attacker subsequently took his own life. In response to the tragedy, Austria has declared three days of national mourning. At 10 am, a minute of silence was observed nationwide, with many gathering in Graz’s main square to pay their respects, laying flowers and lighting candles in memory of the victims.
Chiara Komlenic, a former student, reflected on her time at the school, expressing grief over the loss of her peers and the interruption of their promising lives. In the capital, Vienna, public transport paused for the minute silence, further illustrating the nationwide sorrow.
The 21-year-old shooter, who had not completed his studies, legally owned two firearms—a shotgun and a pistol. Police reported that he lived with his mother and indicated that investigations are ongoing regarding the nature of his actions—whether they were random or targeted.
From the scene, it was noted that injured individuals were found throughout the school building, with many currently stable but others requiring surgery. Among the wounded are individuals from various backgrounds, a reflection of the diverse community within Graz.
Amidst the somber atmosphere, local student Fabian Enzi commented on the impact of the event, highlighting the close-knit nature of Graz’s community and the overwhelming presence of “desperate faces” as residents come to terms with the tragedy.
In light of these events, support resources are available for those affected, including Lifeline and Beyond Blue.