At least 11 people have died and several others are seriously injured after a student opened fire at BORG Dreierschützengasse, a school in Graz, Austria’s second-largest city.
The shooting, which unfolded around 10am local time, prompted a major police response, including Austria’s elite Cobra special forces, who were deployed to the school following emergency calls.
Shooter Among the Dead
Authorities have confirmed that the suspected shooter — a student at the school — is among the deceased. Reports from Austrian media, including ORF and Kronen Zeitung, suggest the suspect may have been found dead in a school bathroom.
Officials believe multiple firearms were used in the attack, and they warn that more victims may still be discovered as the building continues to be evacuated.
Emergency Response and Evacuations
Ambulances, paramedics, and heavily armed officers have flooded the area around the school. A disaster alert was issued to local hospitals, and some of the wounded were transported to a nearby concert stadium converted into a triage centre.
The Austrian Interior Ministry confirmed that students and teachers are among the injured. Police are continuing to search and secure the building.
Officials React
Graz Mayor Elke Kahr confirmed the attacker’s identity as a student and described the situation as a “national tragedy.” A police spokesperson, Sabri Yorgun, stated that the motive remains unknown, and investigations are ongoing.
A City in Shock
The mass shooting comes just days before the tenth anniversary of the 2015 Graz rampage, in which three people were killed. Graz, with a population of around 300,000, is in mourning as details continue to emerge.
Authorities are urging the public to stay clear of the area and to avoid spreading unverified information online. Schools in the city have been placed on alert and counselling services are being made available.
