Shock in Graz: AMOSLauf calls for eleven life - security debate flared up

Shock in Graz: AMOSLauf calls for eleven life - security debate flared up

Graz, Österreich - On June 10, 2025, a heavy killing spree at a school occurred in Graz, which cost at least eleven people, including the perpetrator. Numerous other people were seriously injured in this tragic incident. The Austrian Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen described the crime as indescribable and expressed his deep sympathy with the families concerned. In an emotional speech, he emphasized the need to give teachers a feeling of more security

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The reactions to the shocking event were overwhelming. Van der Bellen and the Mayor of Graz Elke Kahr talked about the shocking conversations that they had with the people. Chancellor Christian Stocker announced a three-day state grants and announced a minute's silence across the country for Wednesday at 10 a.m. The city of Graz, which is often described as beautifully, is now in the shadow of this tragedy.

weapons law in Austria in focus

The killing spree again raises questions about the legal situation on the gun ownership, especially with regard to the 21-year-old perpetrator, the two weapons-a bell pistol and a shotgun-legally. One of these weapons was bought in the days before the crime. Around 1.5 million weapons are registered in Austria, with a population of over nine million people. Mayor Kahr called for a weapons ban in the private sector.

Austrian weapons law provides for different categories, including forbidden weapons and firearms subject to approval. The possession of category B weapons requires a gun ownership card or a weapon pass, whereby the psychological report is a prerequisite for the acquisition. In comparison, Germany has tightened its gun law in recent years, especially according to violent acts such as the terrorist attack in Hanau. Here applicants must submit extensive evidence and have their reliability checked.

reactions and support

After the killing spree, neighboring federal states offered support in the form of advice and personnel. The questions about the weapons rights and the security situation in schools and kindergartens are more urgent than ever. Van der Bellen expressed that the current security situation had to be questioned and a loud and empathetic sign should be sent to society. There is a desire to reduce the likelihood of such acts in the future.

The shock about the loss of life, especially children and adolescents, has grasped all of Austria. Many expressions of sympathy from other European countries show the far -reaching concern about the events in Graz. It remains to be hoped that this tragedy can make a rethink in dealing with weapons and its legal framework in Austria.