Graz, Austria — A tragic school shooting in Graz has left ten people dead, including seven students, and shaken the community. The attack occurred on Tuesday at Dreierschützengasse secondary school, where a 21-year-old former student opened fire before taking his own life in the school’s bathroom.

Authorities reported that the fatalities included six females and three males. Additionally, 28 individuals have been hospitalized, receiving treatment for injuries sustained during the incident, according to local reports. The gunman, whose identity has not been disclosed, was found to have no prior criminal record and reportedly possessed a legal firearms license for the two weapons used in the attack.

During a press briefing, Interior Minister Gerhard Karner revealed that the school would remain closed indefinitely as grief envelops the nation. A three-day mourning period has been declared, culminating in a nationwide moment of silence at 10 a.m. local time on Wednesday. At the Hofburg Palace in Vienna, flags will fly at half-mast to honor the victims.

Chancellor Christian Stocker described the day as “dark” and referred to the event as a “national tragedy.” He expressed deep sorrow over the loss of young lives that had their futures ahead of them. “A school should be a sanctuary for learning and growth, yet it was shattered today,” he remarked, emphasizing the sense of safety that has been violated.

Local residents have reacted with shock and grief, with many taking to the streets to mourn. Fanny Gasser, a journalist, noted that conversations among people revealed deep connections to the school, making the tragedy feel personal for many. “In Graz, relationships run deep, and everyone knows someone affected,” she said, emphasizing the city’s tight-knit community spirit.

The response from law enforcement was swift, with a specialized tactical unit deployed to handle the situation. Police reported they began operations shortly after receiving reports of gunfire. They successfully evacuated students and staff, securing the building and ensuring no further threats remained.

The local mayor, Elke Kahr, characterized the incident as “a terrible tragedy,” expressing her condolences and solidarity with those affected. Vice-President of the European Commission, Kaja Kallas, also voiced her heartbreak, stating that every child deserves to learn in a safe environment free from fear of violence.

In the wake of this devastating event, the community of Graz faces a long road to recovery, grappling with the loss and the implications of such a violent act in a place once considered peaceful. As tributes and memorials begin to emerge, the nation stands united in mourning the lives lost and the innocence shattered.