GRAZ, Austria — A tragic shooting at a school in Graz has left ten people dead, including nine students and a teacher, after a 21-year-old former student embarked on a deadly rampage Tuesday morning. Authorities revealed that the assailant, identified in local media as Arthur A, was deeply involved in online gaming, particularly first-person shooter games. This digital world appeared to be his primary social outlet, while he largely remained isolated from others in real life.
The shooting occurred around 9:43 a.m. when the gunman entered the BORG Dreierschützengasse school, where he had previously been a student. Reports indicate that he meticulously planned the attack, arming himself with a Glock 19 and a sawn-off Mercury shotgun, among other weapons. Just minutes later, he began his assault, targeting students and faculty across several floors of the school. Witnesses described the atmosphere as chaotic, with approximately 350 pupils in attendance.
Among the deceased is a 59-year-old teacher, who may have been known to the shooter, although police have stated it is unclear whether she was intentionally targeted. In her memory, and for the victims, tributes have begun to surface, offering solace to the grieving community.
Nine individuals remain hospitalized, including another teacher, although their conditions have stabilized. Health officials confirmed the last two patients in intensive care would soon be moved to less critical areas of the hospital.
Investigators have uncovered concerning details about the suspect’s mental state. According to reports, he had recently failed a psychological evaluation required for military enlistment. However, he had passed the assessments necessary to legally obtain firearms, which contributed to the tragedy. The suspect lived with his mother and had dropped out of the school three years prior.
This devastating incident has reignited discussions regarding Austria’s gun laws, which many perceive as inadequate. President Alexander Van der Bellen emphasized the urgent need for lawmakers to reevaluate existing regulations surrounding firearm ownership.
The national security council convened to discuss potential revisions to these laws and to consider measures to enhance school safety, including the installation of metal detectors. Local law enforcement underscored the need for effective communication and training within educational institutions, noting that quick-thinking actions taken during the crisis helped protect many students.
Police officials assert that the shooter had a clear and detailed plan, having researched and practiced for weeks leading up to the attack. Investigators noted that a homemade pipe bomb was found at his residence, suggesting further violent intentions that were ultimately thwarted for reasons still being determined.
As tributes pour in for the victims, one family spoke of their profound loss. A 15-year-old girl, Hana, who aspired to be a doctor, was among the first fatalities identified. The community mourns not only for her but for all lives affected by this senseless act of violence.
As the investigation unfolds, questions linger about the motivations driving the gunman and whether he acted alone or received assistance. The tragedy has cast a somber shadow over Graz, as residents seek answers and collectively begin to heal from the profound shock of this unprecedented incident.