A mass shooting at a secondary school in Graz, southeastern Austria, has resulted in ten deaths, including a 17-year-old French student, and left 30 individuals injured.

The perpetrator, a 21-year-old former student, employed legally owned firearms during the attack and subsequently took his own life.

Initial reports indicated nine fatalities, but this was later updated as the full extent of the tragedy became clear.

The shooting occurred just before the tenth anniversary of the 2015 Graz terrorist attack, which also left multiple people dead.

Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker characterized the event as a "national tragedy," and the government declared three days of national mourning in response to the unprecedented violence.

The shooter, reported to have had a history with the school, carried out the attack with a pistol and a shotgun.

Police discovered a farewell note at his residence during an investigation, although it did not provide insight into his motive.

Local authorities secured the area quickly and evacuated students, providing crisis support for those affected.

The city’s mayor confirmed that victim identification processes are underway.

This incident has sent shockwaves through Europe, eliciting responses of sorrow and condolences from leaders across the European Union and beyond.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed her sympathies via social media, while German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul and European Council President António Costa shared their condolences, denouncing the violence.

The incident reflects broader concerns in Austria regarding gun ownership; a 2018 survey revealed that the country has nearly 30 firearms per 100 citizens, significantly higher than neighboring nations.

The shooting reopens discussions on security in educational institutions amid a backdrop of rising concerns about violence in schools across Europe.