School Shooting Suspect Planned Attack, Bomb Failed
Graz Gunman’s Failed Device and Online Life Revealed
A planned shooting spree in Graz, Austria, was narrowly averted when a suspect’s homemade pipe bomb malfunctioned, according to authorities. The incident, which left multiple people injured, is prompting questions about the suspect’s background and access to weapons.
Failed Bomb and Detailed Planning
Following the identification of the alleged perpetrator, a search of his residence uncovered a partially constructed pipe bomb containing all necessary components, but rendered non-functional. A handwritten note detailed the planned course of the attack, suggesting the suspect intended to use the device but lacked the time to complete it. The suspect had legally purchased the firearms used in the attack in Graz, receiving a gun ownership card in mid-May after completing shooting exercises at a local rifle club five times since March.
Psychological Concerns and Online Withdrawal
Authorities revealed that the suspect was previously deemed psychologically unsuitable for a position within the Federal Army. However, data protection regulations prevent the army from sharing this information. Friends described him as deeply withdrawn from the real world, spending significant time in online first-person shooter games and maintaining social connections virtually. He lived extremely withdrawn, was not willing to take part in the real world.
—a close friend of the suspect.
According to the Gun Violence Archive, there have been over 200 mass shootings in the United States so far in 2024, highlighting the global concern surrounding access to firearms and mental health. (Gun Violence Archive)
Investigation Continues, Support Available
Police have established an upload platform for witnesses to submit videos and photos related to the incident. A substantial amount of material, including classroom footage, has already been received and is under review. Witnesses can continue to upload their content at https://upload.bmi.gv.at/. Press conferences from both the police and prosecutors, along with updates on the medical condition of the injured from the Styrian Hospital Society, are scheduled for Thursday.
Community Support and Recovery
The Helmut-List-Halle remains open as a support center for those affected by the shooting. On Wednesday, over 200 children and adolescents, along with their parents, received assistance from 30 school psychologists and 46 crisis intervention team members. The advisory and support services will continue through the weekend. Officials anticipate the Borg Dreierschützengasse school will remain closed for the rest of the week.
“We stick together.”
—Director and school spokesman, Borg Dreierschützengasse
The investigation is ongoing as authorities attempt to determine the motive behind the attack and understand why the school was specifically targeted. Further updates will be provided as they become available.
