Marko Arnautovic says shocking words after the Graz shooting spree

Marko Arnautovic says shocking words after the Graz shooting spree

After the tragic shooting rampage in Graz, Austrian football star Marko Arnautovic was extremely concerned. The player described the situation as a “horror” and admitted having difficulty controlling his emotions. For him, sport takes a back seat for the time being as the events in his hometown take a toll on him. This became clear after the 4-0 win over San Marino, where Arnautovic revealed his feelings and expressed solidarity with the victims and families. He has the goal of taking part in the 2026 World Cup, but needs a club that allows him to play in ideal condition. He will leave Inter Milan when his contract expires and there are already rumors of a possible move to Red Star Belgrade, although managing director Zvezdan Terzic considers the offer unrealistic. Arnautovic also has lucrative offers from the Arab world, which makes his future uncertain.

School shooting in Graz – this is the topic that is currently occupying the whole of Austria. The perpetrator, a 26-year-old Austrian citizen, used his vehicle as a weapon, killing three people and injuring over 30 others, including ten seriously. The incidents began in Zweiglgasse, where one person lost their life and others were injured. The gunman continued across the Augarten Bridge and aimed at a guest garden in Herrengasse. The police ultimately arrested the perpetrator in Schmiedgasse. This meant a major alarm for the rescue workers and security forces: 80 rescue vehicles and four rescue helicopters were in action. State Governor Hermann Schützenhöfer and Mayor Siegfried Nagl were shocked and emphasized the importance of solving the crime. A crisis hotline has been set up for relatives and witnesses, and a crisis intervention team is available.

Psychological problems as a possible cause

Police Director Josef Klamminger commented on the psychological background of the perpetrator. He mentioned possible psychological problems as a motivation for the terrible act. The event is leading to an increased call for discussions about mental health issues and the willingness to seek help. In this context, Paul Plener, President of the Society for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, emphasized that men are less likely to seek help and they often want to leave responsibility for their actions in the media. Reporting on such events carries the risk of imitation, which is why Plener calls for restraint.

There are 1.5 million firearms registered in Austria, and you must be of legal age to purchase a rifle. A psychological test is required to purchase a pistol. Plener is calling for stricter regulations for gun laws in Austria to prevent such tragedies in the future. In view of the large number of injured people and the mourning for the deceased victims, the country is united in deep dismay.