At least 8 feared dead in mass shooting incident at school in Graz, Austria

At least eight people were feared dead after a school shooting took place in Austria’s Graz.

A major police operation was launched after gunshots were reportedly heard inside BORG Dreierschützengasse, a university school, as per reports.

“The reason for the operation was gunshots heard in the building,” tweeted Styrian police.

According to police, several emergency units were deployed at the school.

“The operation is still ongoing. The police helicopter is also in use,” one of the tweets read.

Later, the police informed that a meeting point was set up for the parents of the students at the ASKÖ Stadium.

The school was evacuated, and those inside were brought to a secure meeting point, according to police.

As per the police, a single perpetrator was identified in the preliminary investigation, and the situation was now under control.

Reacting to one of the most horrific tragedies in the country, the Mayor and Governor of Vienna, Michael Ludwig, said, “The news from #Graz deeply shocks me. My deepest sympathy goes to the victims, their families, and all those who are now experiencing immeasurable suffering.

“Especially in such moments, we must stand together as a society. Hatred and violence must never prevail. Our response must be an even stronger commitment to unity and respect,” he added.