A tragic school shooting took place in Graz, Austria, on Tuesday, June 10, 2025. The attack happened at the Dreierschutzengasse secondary school, located in the northwestern part of the city. Graz is Austria’s second-largest city and has a population of about 300,000 people.
The incident began around 10 a.m. local time. Police responded quickly after gunfire was reported inside the school. A special Cobra tactical unit, trained for critical situations, was sent to the scene. More than 300 police officers arrived to help secure the area and evacuate students and staff.
The shooter, a 21-year-old former student of the school, entered with two legally owned firearms. He opened fire in two classrooms. Police later found the suspect dead in a bathroom. Investigators believe he killed himself. A farewell letter was found at his home, suggesting the attack was planned.
Authorities confirmed that 10 people died in the shooting, including the gunman. Among the victims, seven were students, and the rest were adults, including teachers. At least 28 people were taken to hospitals for injuries, and some remain in serious condition.
The police quickly evacuated the city school. They assured the public that there was no ongoing threat after the shooter was found dead. The area around the school was cordoned off, and parents were allowed to reunite with their children once it was safe.
Austria’s Chancellor Christian Stocker expressed deep sorrow, saying the tragedy had struck the country at its core. He highlighted the youth of the victims, calling the event heartbreaking. Graz’s mayor, Elke Kahr, described the shooting as a “tragedy.”
European Commission Vice-President Kaja Kallas also commented, stating that every child should feel safe at school and be able to learn free from fear and violence.
The shooting shocked the people of Graz. Many residents gathered for vigils to mourn the victims. Local journalist Fanny Gasser described the atmosphere as emotional, with people crying in the streets and comforting each other. Graz is known for being a safe city, and many felt unprepared for such a violent event.
Police are continuing their investigation. They have asked witnesses not to share photos or videos online but instead to upload any information to a secure platform. Authorities are also reviewing how the shooter obtained his weapons and whether changes to gun laws are needed.
Austria has declared three days of national mourning. Flags will be flown at half mast, and public celebrations have been cancelled as the country comes to terms with its deadliest school shooting in recent history.
The incident has raised questions about school safety and gun regulations in Austria, a country not known for such attacks. The community and the nation are now focused on supporting the victims’ families and ensuring such a tragedy does not happen again.
