A mass shooting at BORG Dreierschutzengasse secondary school in Graz, Austria’s second-largest city, has left nine people dead and at least ten others injured in one of the deadliest school attacks in the country’s history, Al Jazeera reported. The tragedy unfolded on Tuesday morning around 10 a.m. local time, prompting a rapid response from emergency services and law enforcement, who quickly secured the area.

Authorities later confirmed that the suspected gunman, believed to be a former student of the school, died by suicide, bringing the total death toll to ten. Among the victims were at least seven students and one adult, whose identity has yet to be disclosed. Graz Mayor Elke Kahr called the incident a “terrible tragedy,” while psychological support is now being provided to affected students, many of whom are aged 14 and above, as well as their families.

Local officials reported that the shooting took place across two classrooms, and while the motive behind the attack remains unclear, investigators believe the perpetrator acted alone. Styria state governor Mario Kunasek expressed deep sorrow, saying, “As a father, I am deeply saddened by this insane act, which has caused so much harm and incredible suffering.”

The tragedy has sent shockwaves across Austria and beyond. Chancellor Christian Stocker is en route to Graz, and Interior Minister Gerhard Karner is also expected to visit the scene. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s office described the attack as “absolutely horrible and tragic,” extending condolences to the families of the victims. The city of Graz, home to around 300,000 residents, is reeling from the incident, with national mourning and international sympathy pouring in.