A school shooting in Graz, Austria’s second largest city, resulted in the deaths of at least eight individuals, according to local reports. The incident occurred on Tuesday at the BORG Dreierschützengasse secondary school, located in the city’s northwest region.
A police spokesperson confirmed to NBC News that “several people have been killed” but did not provide specific details about the casualties. Austria’s national broadcaster, ORF, reported that among the deceased were one adult and seven students.
The police spokesperson assured the public, stating, “There is no longer a danger for the public,” and emphasized that “the situation is under control.”
Earlier in the day, Austrian police utilized social media platform X to inform the public about the operation that was in progress at the school, which involved various emergency services, tactical units, and a helicopter.
According to Fritz Grundnig, a police spokesperson speaking to ORF, officers evacuated the school after shots rang out. Those injured, including students and teachers, were transported to the Helmut List Hall, a nearby venue, for immediate care, as reported by Austrian newspaper Kronen Zeitung.
A designated meeting point for parents was established at the ASKÖ football stadium, as announced by the police. Officials have not confirmed whether the suspected shooter was among the casualties but indicated they believe only one individual was involved in the shooting.
In a statement, the police urged the public to “stay away from the area” and to “strictly follow the instructions of the emergency services.” They also set up a channel for tips and observations related to the incident.
As of now, the Austrian interior ministry has not responded to inquiries from NBC News. The police have planned a press conference for later today to address the situation further.