Mourning for Hanna (15): Emotional commemoration after the killing spree in Graz

Mourning for Hanna (15): Emotional commemoration after the killing spree in Graz

On June 11, 2025, a moving memorial event for the victims of a tragic killing spree at a high school in Graz took place on Graz's main square. The 15-year-old student Hanna was killed in this incident, who cost a total of ten people. Hundreds of people, including Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen, gathered to commemorate the victims and to express their dismay. Van der Bellen, who entered the city's condolence book, previously had talks with Governor Mario Kunasek (FPÖ) and Mayor Elke Kahr (KPÖ).

The atmosphere was characterized by grief and solidarity. Hanna's brother spoke under tears to those present and addressed his words directly to his late sister. "We miss you and we love you," were the emotional words he chose. On the day of the crime, he had put his mathematics matura and had returned home in the hope of being able to speak to his mother and sister. Instead, he received the terrible news that his sister no longer lived. This experience has met him and the mourning community deeply.

testimony and collected strength

A student of the affected high school who had witnessed the killing spree reported about the overwhelming panic and fear, which shaped the moment. She also spoke of the concerns of the parents who were waiting for her children outside. Her message was clear and powerful: "I do not allow this day to tear us. Our answer is love." These words were heard a lot and were understood as an appeal to the community, which should come together in such a dark time.

Mayor Kahr emphasized the need for cohesion, peace, solidarity and respect to go through this difficult phase together. The desire that the victims are not forgotten was often expressed and shows the deep influence that this tragedy has on the community in Graz.

The dark context of amokates

The Graz event is not isolated, but is part of a number of amocates that have made headlines again and again in recent years. According to Statista, the term “amok” is to be understood as a blind attack and killing act. Such acts, especially at schools, arouse particularly large horror. The worst gauge in Germany, such as the tragedies in Erfurt (2002) and Winnenden (2009), led to discussions about security measures and prevention in the field of education.

demands for better protection and preventive measures will be louder in order to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The reflection about what goes wrong in society and how to stand together is now more urgent than ever.

The memorial event in Graz not only underlined the loss of individual life, but also the strength of the community collected in the face of an immeasurable pain. The messages of love and cohesion are timeless and important.