**Multiple Fatalities Confirmed Following Shooting at Graz School in Austria**
A tragic incident unfolded in the city of Graz, Austria, on Tuesday morning, as authorities confirmed that several individuals lost their lives during a shooting at a local school. The alarming event has sent shockwaves through the community, with details about the circumstances still emerging as police continue their investigation.
According to official statements, Austrian police were summoned to BORG Dreierschutzengasse, a secondary school in Graz, shortly after reports of gunfire were made at around 10am local time. Witnesses described hearing shots ring out, prompting an immediate and significant response from law enforcement, including the rapid deployment of special forces.
The Austrian Interior Ministry later verified that multiple fatalities had resulted from the incident, but authorities have not yet announced the exact number of victims. Information on whether others have sustained injuries remains unclear at this time, and there has been no official confirmation regarding the fate or identity of the alleged perpetrator.
Police continued to maintain a heavy presence in the vicinity of the school throughout the morning. A police helicopter was observed circling the area, further highlighting the seriousness of the situation and the efforts being made to secure the location. Security cordons were put into place, with officers instructing members of the public to avoid the area.
The city of Graz, Austria’s second-largest urban centre, is home to around 300,000 residents. Known for its historic architecture and vibrant student population, the city is now wrestling with the aftermath of a rare and deeply unsettling event. Community leaders and education officials have begun to express their condolences while offering support to affected families.
Austrian media have reported that the school, BORG Dreierschutzengasse, serves students aged approximately 14 to 18. The institution had been in session at the time of the incident, leading to widespread concern for the wellbeing of pupils and staff. Emergency services were seen on site providing care and reassurance as families anxiously waited for updates.
Authorities have remained tight-lipped about the specifics of the ongoing police operation, stating only that an active investigation is underway and that their primary concern is the safety and security of those in the area. At midday, police confirmed via social media that operations were still active, advising people to avoid speculation until more information could be shared.
Community members have begun laying flowers near the school and voicing their shock over the traumatic event. Psychologists and crisis intervention teams have been mobilised to assist those caught up in the tragedy, and local officials have appealed for calm as the full scale of what has happened gradually becomes clearer.
As this is a developing story, further details are expected in the coming hours. Austrian authorities have promised regular updates as more facts are confirmed, and the city of Graz prepares to support those impacted by a harrowing day. The country now awaits further clarification regarding the perpetrator’s status and a fuller picture of what led to this devastating loss of life at a place of learning.