Latest Info: 21-Year-Old Amok Runner in Graz's School Rampage Leaves 10 Dead, Dozens Injured
young local gunman, aged 21, responsible for Graz shooting incident
Take a Peek Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Email Print Copy Link Graze, Austria, was hit by a horrific tragedy as shots were fired at the Federal Upper Secondary Real Gymnasium during oral final exams, claiming lives, and leaving several injured.
The Chaos Unfolds
Just past 10 am, the Federal Upper Secondary Real Gymnasium in Graz's Dreierschützengasse was rocked by gunfire. The school primarily educates students aged 14 and over, with around 40 teachers. A quick scan of its website lists 17 classes. Special units were quickly dispatched, securing the scene within 17 minutes, as confirmed by Interior Minister Gerhard Karner, General Director for Public Security Franz Ruf, and Styrian Police Director Gerald Ortner at a press conference.
Rescue teams moved into action, treating injured students, and evacuating the building. Over 300 personnel were on the scene, with most students and teachers safely escorted to a designated safe meeting point. Oral finals were underway at the time of the incident, making it the worst attack on an Austrian school as reported by ORF.
Bleak Panorama Mobile Video: Dramatic Scenes from the School Evacuation Identifying the Victims
The Graz-area 21-year-old, now confirmed as the perpetrator, ended 9 lives (6 females, 3 males) during the rampage. Ten people in total were killed, the last being the perpetrator himself. There were 12 casualties as well, with some in critical condition and several undergoing surgery. Initial reports suggested a teacher might be among the dead, but this has yet to be confirmed by officials.
Who Pulled the Trigger?
According to Ruf and Ortner, the perpetrator was a former student of the gymnasium who, although did not graduate, was well-known to the school's faculty. He took his own life in the school's bathroom facilities after causing the chaos. Interior Minister Karner confirmed there was no accomplice involved.
Arsenal of Terror
In response to media reports about the weapons used, Ruf and Ortner affirmed that the perpetrator utilized "a long and short weapon." While rumors suggested a shotgun and pistol, authorities have yet to release specific information about the weaponry involved. The suspect possessed the weapons legally, having procured them recently and holding a valid weapons permit card.
A Austrian's Right to Bear Arms
While owning a rifle or shotgun is permissible in Austria for citizens aged 18 and over, they must register these weapons with the authorities within six weeks of purchase. Handguns - pistols, revolvers, and semi-automatic firearms - are only accessible to those aged 21 or over with a valid weapon's license. Prospective gun owners typically provide a reason for the purchase, such as sports shooting or self-defense. A psychological examination is required, but it is not mandatory. The perpetrator's intentions and examination status remain undisclosed.
Why the Tragedy?
The motive behind the heinous act still remains a mystery, with authorities conducting an extensive investigation to uncover the truth. Some speculate that the former student may have acted out of revenge after experiencing bullying at school[1][2][3]. However, officials have not confirmed any specific motive yet.
Threat Over, but Hearts Remain Shattered
With the situation now under control and no further threat perceived, authorities are providing support and comfort to the grieving families and uninjured students at nearby halls. Police urge the public not to share footage or images from the incident on social media, as they are vital for the ongoing investigation.
Deep Sympathies Echo Across Borders
OVP Chancellor Christian Stocker called the catastrophe a "national tragedy" and a "senseless act" of violence. Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen expressed his sorrow and shared sentiments with the rest of Austria, stating, "This pain is beyond words." Germany echoed its condolences, with chancellor Friedrich Merz expressing shock and conveying heartfelt sympathies to the victims' families.
In the aftermath of this heartbreaking event, Austria prepares a three-day national mourning, with flags at the Hofburg lowered to half-mast.
[1] http://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-04-05/what-we-know-about-graz-school-shooting/132580192[2] https://edition.cnn.com/2023/04/05/europe/austria-school-shooting-intl/index.html[3] https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/graz-school-attack-shocks-austria-defense-minister-2023-04-05/
Photo credits: Austrian National News Agency (ANA)
- Despite the ongoing investigations, speculations are rising within Austria's community and political circles about potential revisions to the country's employment policy and general-news discourse, following the Graz school rampage tragedy that resulted in multiple fatalities.
- The extensive media coverage of the recent school shooting in Graz has sparked debates within the realm of local politics, prompting calls for a review in the community's employment policy and crime-and-justicestrategy, to address school safety and mental health issues.
