King Charles mourns: Solidarity with victims of the Graz-Amo run

King Charles mourns: Solidarity with victims of the Graz-Amo run

On June 12, 2025, King Charles and Camilla mourn the victims of a killing spree in Graz, in which nine students lost their lives. On Instagram, the royal couple expressed that they are deeply shocked and sad about the events. They explained that schools should be places of protection and learning and condemned the attack on students and staff as a hideous act. King Charles plans to pray for the victims and expressed his sympathy for the families concerned. He emphasized that their thoughts and prayers apply to the families of the victims and expressed his deepest sympathy for all Austrians.

Several public memorial events have been held in Graz in the past few days. On Tuesday evening there was a memorial service in the Graz Cathedral, in which several hundred people, including political leaders, took part. Bishop Georg Bätzing from Germany expressed his condolences, while cathedral pastor Ewald Pristavec opened the service with psalms and lit ten candles. Auxiliary Bishop Johannes Freitag held a moving sermon about one of the victims.

public sympathy and solidarity

The horrific incident occurred through a 21-year-old former student who committed the crime, who shook not only the school community, but also the entire nation. Graz General Vicar Erich Linhardt emphasized the need for hope and cohesion in such difficult times during the service. The event was guarded by police forces and crisis intervention teams to ensure the mourning community of security.

In addition, a second memorial service took place in the parish of St. Vinzenz near the crime scene. The victims also commemorated the Islamic faith community in Austria after prayer. Hundreds of people gathered at the main square in Graz to create a sea of ​​lights to remember those affected. German bishops also expressed their pain and grief about this terrible event.

Merver minute and support for those affected

In many churches in Austria, a nationwide funeral minute was held with bell ringing on Wednesday at 10 a.m. A hotline has been set up to ensure that relatives and those affected can receive support. There is also an upload platform for witnesses to collect information about the crime. The diocese offers telephone pastoral care around the clock to help people in this difficult time.

bishops from Slovenia have also sent their condolences and convicted any form of violence. Celebrities from all over the world show their sympathy and solidarity with the victims and their families.