School shooting in Graz: Shocking details about the drama at the school!

School shooting in Graz: Shocking details about the drama at the school!

On Tuesday morning, June 10, 2025, there was a tragic shooting spree in Graz in which a 21-year-old former student, Artur A., ​​took the lives of ten people. The shots were fired at BORG Dreierschützengasse, a school he had once attended. The crime occurred around 10 a.m., with the perpetrator shooting mainly on the third floor and specifically in his former classroom. The police had to record around 40 shots after the crime.

Artur A. had not yet come to the attention of the authorities and was considered inconspicuous. However, he had to struggle with massive bullying during his school days, which is partly interpreted as a motive for the cruel act. The fatalities include seven women and three men, including several students. The number of injured rose to eleven, with some people being seriously injured.

Details about the crime and the investigation

After the fatal attack, the perpetrator barricaded himself in the school toilet and committed suicide. The Austrian government declared three days of national mourning in response to the events. During a search of his apartment, police found an inoperable pipe bomb, which caused an additional shock. Artur A. had legally purchased two firearms, a pistol and a shotgun. One of the weapons was purchased shortly before the crime.

The investigation revealed that the perpetrator had left a suicide note and a video in which he apparently announced the crime. Over 300 police and rescue workers were deployed to manage the situation and evacuate the school. The students were taken to a nearby hall where they were looked after by a crisis intervention team. After about 17 minutes the situation was under control.

Context of violence in schools

The shooting raises questions about violence in schools, a problem increasingly discussed in the media. According to a recent survey, almost 70% of teachers in socially disadvantaged schools report a problem with violence. What is particularly alarming is the finding that over 12% of 15-year-old students experience bullying several times a month. Given these developments, it is not surprising that over 80% of parents surveyed want anti-violence training in schools to prevent future incidents.

A funeral service was held in Graz Cathedral, and candles were placed in the main square in memory of the victims. These horrific events serve as a sobering reminder of the ongoing challenges in dealing with violence in educational institutions.