A horrific mass shooting unfolded at the BORG
Dreierschützengasse high school in Graz, Austria, on
Tuesday, leaving 10 people dead, including students and a faculty
member. The attacker, reportedly a student at the school, died by suicide
during the incident, according to city mayor Elke Kahr, who
described the event as a "terrible tragedy."
Details of the Attack
Police rushed to the scene after receiving reports of multiple
gunshots at the school around 10 a.m. local time. Special
forces were deployed, and authorities worked to secure the area. The shooter's
body was later found in a school washroom, though their identity
remains undisclosed. Investigators believe the assailant acted alone.
By 11:30 a.m., police confirmed the school
had been fully evacuated, with students and staff relocated to a
safe zone. Authorities declared the site "secure" and
assured there was no further danger.
Casualties and Response
The attack claimed the lives of nine students and
one teacher, while at least 10 others were injured and
taken to nearby hospitals. Interior Minister Gerhard Karner traveled
to Graz to assess the situation, and European Union spokesperson Paula
Pinho expressed deep condolences, stating, "We stand
together in mourning while we seek clarity in the wake of this horrible
event."
Austria’s Gun Laws and Context
Austria has strict firearm regulations,
requiring licenses, background checks, and secure storage for gun owners. Minors
are barred from possessing firearms, and certain weapons like machine
guns and suppressors are banned. Despite these laws, Austria has one of
the highest rates of civilian gun ownership in Europe, with an
estimated 30 firearms per 100 people, according to the Small
Arms Survey.
Graz, Austria’s second-largest city, is home to
over 300,000 people and lies about 200 km southwest of
Vienna. The incident has sent shockwaves through the nation, raising
questions about school safety and gun control enforcement.
As investigations continue, the community mourns the lives
lost in one of Austria’s deadliest school shootings.
(Source: Adapted from news reports on the Graz school
shooting.)
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