Austria in shock: Massacre at a school in an armed attack
Austrian authorities announced new details about the horrific massacre that took place on Tuesday morning at the BORG school located on Dreischützengasse in the city of Graz. The crime claimed the lives of ten people, including the attacker who committed suicide after firing about 40 bullets using two firearms that he legally possessed.
Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer described what happened as a "dark day in the country's history" and announced a national mourning period of three days, which will include a minute of national silence on Wednesday at 10 a.m. He also emphasized that schools must remain "places of peace."
The governor of Styria, Mario Kunasek, said that "the green heart of Austria is crying," referring to the nickname the state carries for its green nature. He confirmed that the lives of many have changed tragically during this day and expressed his gratitude to the rescue teams that helped avoid greater losses.
Interior Minister Gerhard Karner confirmed that the alert was received around 10 AM, following the sound of gunshots and screams inside the school. The police, which sent more than 300 personnel, managed to secure the area and evacuate the school quickly. The victims are six girls and three boys, in addition to the perpetrator, and there are 12 injured, some in critical condition.
Education Minister Christoph Wiedeker expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and the teachers, emphasizing that schools must always be a safe place for everyone. He added, "Those who need help will receive it." State Secretary Jörg Leichtfried described the situation as a "national shock," pledging to uncover all the circumstances of the crime.
The police reported that the attacker is a 21-year-old Austrian man from the Graz-Umgebung area. He was a former student but did not complete his studies and had no prior criminal record. Searches are currently being conducted at his residence, while authorities continue their intensive investigations.