A devastating shooting at a school in Graz, Austria, claimed at least eight lives and injured many others, with police securing the scene and investigating the motive, while the nation mourns and authorities suspect the attacker may have died by suicide.

A devastating shooting at a school in Graz, Austria, has claimed at least eight lives and left numerous others injured, according to local media and official reports. The horrific attack, which unfolded in the southern Austrian city on Tuesday morning, has plunged the nation into shock and grief. Police have secured the scene and confirmed there is no ongoing threat to public safety, but the investigation remains in its early stages, with authorities working to piece together the sequence of events and the motive behind this tragedy.

The incident occurred at a school in Graz, Austria’s second-largest city, shortly after the start of the school day. Eyewitnesses reported hearing up to 20 gunshots echoing from within the building, sparking panic among students, staff, and nearby residents. Emergency services, including police, paramedics, and fire services, descended on the scene, where they found a chaotic and harrowing situation. Local media, reported that the number of injured is in the double digits, though exact figures have yet to be confirmed by the Interior Ministry.

A spokesperson for Graz police told the Associated Press that the situation is under control, but details remain sparse. Unconfirmed reports from Austria’s national broadcaster ORF suggest the attacker may have taken his own life. “The perpetrator has likely shot himself,” a police spokesperson was quoted as saying, though they cautioned that the situation remains “very unclear.” Authorities have not yet released the identity of the suspect or confirmed whether they acted alone.

As emergency services continue to treat the injured and support those affected, the investigation is focused on understanding the motive and circumstances of the attack. Police are interviewing witnesses and reviewing any available footage from the school and surrounding areas. The school has been cordoned off, and parents have been directed to a nearby community centre to reunite with their children, many of whom were evacuated amidst scenes of distress.

The attack has sent shockwaves through Graz, a city known for its historic charm and vibrant cultural scene, and across Austria. Chancellor Karl Nehammer addressed the nation in a brief statement, expressing his “deepest condolences” to the victims’ families and calling for unity in the face of this tragedy. “Our hearts are with the people of Graz,” he said. “We stand together against such senseless violence.” Other political leaders echoed his sentiments, urging the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information.

Graz Mayor Elke Kahr, visibly emotional, visited the community centre where families were gathering. “This is a dark day for our city,” she said. “We will do everything in our power to support those who have lost loved ones and to care for the injured.” Schools across the city have been closed, and counselling services have been made available to students, staff, affected by the trauma.

International leaders have also expressed solidarity with Austria. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen tweeted, “I am deeply shocked by the horrific attack in Graz. My thoughts are with the victims, their families, and the Austrian people. Europe stands with you.” Similar messages came from leaders in Germany, France, and the United Kingdom, reflecting the global impact of the tragedy.

The shooting has reignited discussions about gun violence and school safety in Europe, where such incidents are rare but deeply unsettling. Austria has strict gun laws, and the source of the weapon used in the attack remains under investigation. Experts note that while Austria has robust gun control measures, illegal firearms can still find their way into the wrong hands through black market channels.

As the investigation continues, authorities have promised to provide updates as more information becomes available. For now, Graz remains a city in mourning, grappling with the loss of life and the trauma inflicted on its community. Vigils are being planned across the city, and residents have begun laying flowers and candles outside the school in a quiet tribute to the victims.

This tragic event marks one of the deadliest school shootings in Austria’s history, and its impact will be felt for years to come. The nation, known for its peaceful and orderly society, now faces the difficult task of healing and seeking answers in the wake of unimaginable loss.