In an unprecedented tragedy, Graz experienced a catastrophic shooting on Tuesday, resulting in 11 fatalities, including the attacker. The incident marks the deadliest school shooting in Austria's history, prompting shock and sorrow throughout the nation. Reka, a resident near the scene, expressed disbelief at the horror that unfolded in their once safe community.
Tragedy Strikes Graz: Austria Faces its Deadliest School Shooting
Tragedy Strikes Graz: Austria Faces its Deadliest School Shooting
A somber mood envelops Graz as the city grapples with a devastating school shooting that has left 11 dead, among them the assailant.
Around 10:00 AM, a former pupil of the secondary school, reportedly armed with two guns, launched a violent attack during morning classes. Tragically, six females and three males lost their lives, with another victim succumbing to injuries hours later. Many students were gearing up for final exams when the assault occurred. The police managed to regain control 17 minutes after being alerted, but the aftermath left a deep scar on the city.
The gunman, aged 21, reportedly struggled with issues of bullying and took his own life following the rampage. Locals like Reka voiced their disbelief, emphasizing that Graz is a peaceful and beautiful city. Responses from Austria's leaders reflected the national grief, with President Van der Bellen addressing the heavy heart left by the tragedy and Chancellor Stocker labeling it a profound national disaster.
Austria's response to this unimaginable event includes a three-day mourning period and lowered flags across the country. Historically, school shootings in Austria have been rare despite its high rate of civilian gun ownership. Different from past incidents, which resulted in fewer casualties, this recent attack has pushed the limits of grief for many. The Graz shooter legally owned his firearms, with one purchased merely a day before the attack, according to reports, highlighting the complexities surrounding gun control in the country.
This incident leaves many in the community wondering how such violence can erupt in a place they considered secure. As the city mourns, Austrians unite in their loss, vowing to remember the young lives cut short and to seek answers in the face of tragedy that struck their beloved Graz.
The gunman, aged 21, reportedly struggled with issues of bullying and took his own life following the rampage. Locals like Reka voiced their disbelief, emphasizing that Graz is a peaceful and beautiful city. Responses from Austria's leaders reflected the national grief, with President Van der Bellen addressing the heavy heart left by the tragedy and Chancellor Stocker labeling it a profound national disaster.
Austria's response to this unimaginable event includes a three-day mourning period and lowered flags across the country. Historically, school shootings in Austria have been rare despite its high rate of civilian gun ownership. Different from past incidents, which resulted in fewer casualties, this recent attack has pushed the limits of grief for many. The Graz shooter legally owned his firearms, with one purchased merely a day before the attack, according to reports, highlighting the complexities surrounding gun control in the country.
This incident leaves many in the community wondering how such violence can erupt in a place they considered secure. As the city mourns, Austrians unite in their loss, vowing to remember the young lives cut short and to seek answers in the face of tragedy that struck their beloved Graz.
