Asger Risom
The deadliest school shooting in Austria’s history has left a nation in shock. A former student killed ten people before taking his own life — leaving behind more questions than answers.
It started as a normal school day in Graz. Within minutes, it turned into a national tragedy. Authorities are still piecing together the reasons behind a deadly school shooting that left ten people dead and reignited debates about Austria’s gun laws.
Former student carried out the attack with two legally owned weapons
The shooter, identified as 21-year-old Arthur A., was a former student of the school. He entered the building shortly after 10 a.m. Tuesday, carrying both a pistol and a rifle.
According to Austrian officials, he opened fire in two separate classrooms, killing seven girls, three boys, and injuring eleven others before taking his own life in a bathroom.
Police later confirmed the discovery of a farewell letter addressed to his parents, both in printed and digital form.
While the letter didn’t clearly state his motive, some local media suggested the shooter may have felt bullied in the past. Investigators have not confirmed those claims.
Homemade explosive found, but non-functional
Austrian police also found a non-operational homemade bomb at the attacker’s residence. He had no criminal record and was not on any watchlists.
Both weapons used in the attack were legally owned, reigniting national conversations around firearm access and mental health.
Between 2018 and 2025, the number of firearms in Austria rose from one million to over 1.5 million, according to official data cited by Die Presse.
The gun debate has intensified in the aftermath of this shooting.
Survivors and students begin processing the trauma
Students returned Wednesday to a nearby hall where psychologists and educators offered support. “Some want to talk, others cry, others try to comfort each other,” said Edwin Benko, a psychological intervention coordinator.
The school will remain closed during the investigation. Education officials have stated that children who are unwilling or unable to return will be excused from classes in the coming weeks.
Authorities continue to search for answers as Austria mourns. The attack is considered the worst school shooting in the country’s history, as reported by 20minutos.