A school shooting in Graz, Austria, on June 10, 2025, resulted in the deaths of 10 people, including high school students, in what authorities described as the country’s worst mass shooting since World War II. The perpetrator, identified as a former student, also died in the incident, and police are investigating the motive behind the attack that has shocked the nation.
The Incident
The shooting occurred at a high school in Graz, Austria’s second-largest city. Ten people were killed, and several others were injured. Following the attack, Austria declared three days of national mourning.
Hospital officials reported that all injured patients were in stable condition by the morning after the shooting. Nine remained in intensive care, while two others had been moved to regular wards. Injuries ranged from facial wounds requiring surgery to knee injuries.
Who Was the Gunman?
Authorities identified the gunman as a former student of the attacked school. While unconfirmed Austrian media reports named him as “Artur A,” officials stated he had no prior criminal record.
Investigators believe the 21-year-old perpetrator, who reportedly lived with his mother, died by suicide in a school bathroom shortly after the attack. Neighbours described him as “completely introverted.”
A search of the alleged gunman’s home uncovered plans for an explosive device and a non-functioning pipe bomb. Police also found a suicide note, both digital and handwritten, addressed to his parents. Public Security Director Franz Ruf stated that no motive could be determined from the note immediately. Police are investigating why the gunman, who had reportedly failed to graduate from the school, carried out the attack.
Police officer outside BG/BRG Keplerstraße school building after the Graz shooting on June 10, 2025.
The Weapons and Gun Laws in Austria
The suspected gunman was in possession of two firearms, which were seized by police. Authorities confirmed that he had legally acquired both weapons. He had reportedly passed the psychological evaluation required in Austria to obtain a Category B firearm possession card, which is necessary for certain types of weapons.
Austria has more liberal gun laws compared to many other European countries, resulting in relatively high private gun ownership. While some weapons like rifles and shotguns can be bought without a permit from age 18, acquiring weapons such as repeating shotguns or semi-automatic firearms requires a gun ownership card and a firearms pass. Public Security Director Franz Ruf noted that the perpetrator was not permitted to carry the weapons outside his home.
The rare and deadly nature of the shooting is expected to spark a debate within Austria regarding potential restrictions on firearms. The Mayor of Graz, Elke Kahr, has called for a complete ban on private weapons, arguing that gun licenses are issued too quickly. Authorities have indicated that the case will be examined to identify and close any gaps in existing regulations.
People light candles during a vigil in Graz following the deadly school shooting.
Aftermath and Response
The tragedy has led to widespread grief and shock across Austria. Chancellor Christian Stocker described the events as “incomprehensible,” emphasizing that schools should remain safe places for learning and growth. Education Minister Christoph Wiederkehr echoed this sentiment, stating that schools must be safe environments for students.
Authorities have established numerous crisis intervention teams and a dedicated hotline to provide support for the victims, their families, and others affected by the shooting. Investigations are also planned to explore how schools can enhance preventative and protective measures to prevent similar future tragedies, particularly given the rarity of such events in Austria.
For more information on the Graz school shooting and its aftermath, explore these related stories:
- Mass held in Graz for victims of Austria’s deadliest mass shooting since World War II
- Former student identified as gunman who killed 10 in school shooting in Austria
- Austria mourns victims of Graz school shooting
