A devastating school shooting has left at least eight people dead and several others injured in the Austrian city of Graz.

The incident unfolded on Monday morning at a secondary school on Dreierschuetzengasse, prompting a large-scale police response and the deployment of special forces. According to Austria’s state broadcaster ORF, both students and teachers are among the victims.

Authorities believe the suspect, reportedly a student at the school, died by suicide shortly after carrying out the attack.

Police Response

Police spokesperson Sabri Yorgun confirmed that emergency services received a distress call around 10 a.m., prompting the swift arrival of armed units. A police helicopter was also dispatched to assist in the ongoing operation, which remains active as investigators work to understand the full scope of the tragedy.

“The situation is still being assessed. We are working to get a complete picture,” Yorgun said.

Rising Casualty Count

Initial reports confirmed five fatalities, but the number has since risen to eight. Several others have sustained serious injuries, and they are receiving emergency medical care.

Authorities have yet to release the identities of the victims or the suspected gunman, and no motive has been publicly disclosed. The area remains cordoned off as forensic teams continue their investigation.

Official Statements

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), local officials stated: “The operation is ongoing. A police helicopter is in use to support ground units. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.”

This incident marks one of the deadliest school shootings in Austria’s recent history and has sent shockwaves throughout the nation.

Grief support and crisis services are being made available to students, families, and school staff affected by the tragedy.