National Mourning in Austria Following Tragic School Shooting in Graz

Austria is currently observing a three-day national mourning period after a tragic school shooting took place in Graz, the country's second-largest city. The incident claimed the lives of at least 11 individuals, including the shooter, with another 11 people suffering from serious injuries. This tragic event has been labeled as one of the most severe school shootings in Austrian history, according to local media.

In response to the tragedy, Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen announced the national mourning, during which the flag will be flown at half-staff. He described the shooting as something that "strikes our country at the heart." In a show of solidarity, government officials including Chancellor Christian Stocker and Vice-Chancellor Andreas Babler came together in Graz on the evening of the shooting to honor the victims.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen made poignant remarks about the shooting, noting that schools are usually seen as symbols of hope and the future. She expressed how heartbreaking it is for such institutions to become associated with violence and death.

Authorities confirmed that the shooting occurred shortly before 10 a.m. local time at BORG school in the Lend district, with the 21-year-old shooter, a former student, ultimately taking his own life. In response, police have increased their presence in the area, deploying helicopters and confirming the evacuation of the school while ensuring that there is no further threat.

A nationwide minute of silence is scheduled for Wednesday morning at 10 a.m. local time, while various public events have been cancelled or postponed. A resident of Graz reflected on the tragedy, emphasizing the shock of such violence in a country known for its beauty, stating that it is incomprehensible for the community to encounter such an event.