Austria School Shooting: 11 Dead, Attacker a Former Student. Bullying a Possible Motive.
Austria School Shooting: A devastating tragedy unfolded in Graz, Austria, on Tuesday, June 10, 2025. A school shooting resulted in the deaths of 11 people, including the attacker, reportedly a former student. Several students and teachers were injured in the attack. According to local media, the attacker fired into two classrooms before taking his own life in a school restroom. The incident has sent shockwaves throughout Austria.
What Happened at the Graz School?
Reports of a shooting at the BORG Dreierschützengasse high school in Graz emerged around 10:00 AM on Tuesday morning. The school is located in the northwestern part of the city. According to the local newspaper Kronen Zeitung, the attacker opened fire indiscriminately in two classrooms, killing at least 11 people. The victims included seven students, one teacher, and others. The attacker, a 22-year-old former student, was later found dead in a school restroom; police believe he died by suicide.
At least 28 people were injured in the attack, four critically. The injured were rushed to nearby hospitals, where an emergency situation was declared. Videos circulating on social media showed police and ambulances deployed outside the school; some injured were airlifted to hospitals by helicopter.
Who Was the Attacker?
According to police and local media, the attacker was a 22-year-old former student of the school. Salzburger Nachrichten reported he used a pistol and a shotgun in the attack, which he allegedly legally purchased. He fired into two classrooms before committing suicide in a school restroom.
While police have not yet publicly identified him, reports indicate he had been a victim of bullying at the school. Local media suggest bullying may have been a contributing factor to the attack. However, police are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the exact motive.
Swift Action by Police and Emergency Services
Austrian police responded swiftly to the shooting. Around 10:00 AM, police received reports of gunshots from the school. Regular police units and the Cobra special forces were deployed. A police helicopter was also dispatched to the scene. By midday, the school had been evacuated, and all students were safely relocated.
Police announced on social media that the situation was under control and there was no further threat to the public. The entire school building was searched to ensure there were no further dangers. Emergency alerts were issued to nearby hospitals, and treatment for the injured commenced.
Was Bullying the Motive?
According to local media and police sources, the attacker had faced bullying at the school, a potential contributing factor to the attack. Kronen Zeitung reported the attacker perceived himself as a victim of bullying and may have acted in retaliation. However, this remains unconfirmed, and police are investigating this angle.
Bullying is a serious issue prevalent in schools worldwide. It not only impacts mental health but can also lead to violent acts. This incident underscores the need for enhanced bullying prevention measures and increased focus on students' mental well-being in schools.
