Graz, Austria, June 10, 2025: In one of the most devastating mass shootings in Austria’s postwar history, a 21-year-old former student opened fire at BORG Dreierschützengasse high school in Graz on Tuesday, killing nine individuals six women and three men before turning the gun on himself. At least 12 others were injured in the attack, which has shaken the nation and reignited debate over firearm access.
Authorities confirmed that the gunman, an Austrian national who previously attended the school but dropped out, legally possessed both a pistol and a shotgun. He had no criminal record and is believed to have acted alone. The assailant died by suicide in a school bathroom after carrying out the attack.
Emergency services responded with extraordinary speed. Within 17 minutes of the first alert, police had secured the premises. More than 300 officers, including elite special forces, were deployed alongside 65 ambulances and crisis response teams in what officials described as one of the country’s largest postwar emergency operations.
While the motive remains under investigation, early reports suggest the perpetrator may have been bullied during his time at the school. The interior ministry has not ruled out personal grievances or psychological factors as potential contributors.
Chancellor Christian Stocker addressed the nation on Tuesday evening, declaring three days of national mourning. Flags across Austria are to fly at half-mast, and a nationwide moment of silence will be observed. “This is not only a tragedy for Graz, but for the entire nation,” Stocker said. “Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and the entire school community.”
This attack marks Austria’s deadliest school shooting and the worst mass shooting in the country since the end of World War II. The incident has provoked a wave of public grief and reflection, especially as Austria ranks among the highest in Europe for civilian gun ownership.
Government officials, opposition leaders, and education authorities have all expressed condolences, while also calling for urgent national dialogue on school security, mental health support, and firearm regulations.
As forensic teams continue to examine the scene and investigators interview survivors and witnesses, the tragedy has left an indelible scar on Austria’s collective psyche raising hard questions about youth alienation, violence, and the fragile security of institutions once thought safe.
