A tragic shooting at a Graz high school on Monday left 10 victims dead and 12 others injured, as authorities search for the motive behind the gunman's actions, who later took his own life.

This incident marks one of the worst outbreaks of violence in Austria's modern history, as a 21-year-old gunman opened fire with a shotgun and pistol at his former school, tragically resulting in 10 fatalities and injuring 12 others. With a farewell note found at the scene but offering no explanation, authorities face a daunting challenge to uncover the motive behind the attack, which has prompted a nationwide observance of mourning and has united political parties in solidarity.

The gunman, who was not employed at the time and had no prior known records, acted alone during the attack, which unfolded during school hours. Victims were located both inside and outside the school on various floors, indicating the shooter moved throughout the building as chaos ensued.

In the wake of the shooting, a nationwide minute of silence was observed to honor the victims. This heartfelt gesture reflected the deep loss felt across the country, where citizens are coming to terms with the gravity of the incident.

Austria's government declared three days of national mourning following the shooting, providing a period for reflection and remembrance. During this time, flags across public buildings were flown at half-mast, symbolizing a collective grief felt throughout the nation.

The injured individuals, totaling twelve, were reported to be in various conditions, with many being treated for non-life-threatening injuries. Emergency services responded swiftly, with around 17 minutes passing between the first emergency calls and the scene being declared safe. Authorities focused on ensuring the safety of students and staff who were still inside the school.

An inactive pipe bomb was discovered at the gunman's residence during the investigation, raising questions about his intentions and the planning behind the attack. While authorities continue to explore potential connections and motives, the discovery of such an item adds a concerning layer to the unfolding situation.

As authorities work to uncover the motivations behind the shooting, residents of Graz, and indeed all of Austria, grapple with the emotional aftermath of such a tragic event. Support services have been made available to those affected, providing a vital resource for individuals to seek help as they process the trauma of the incident.

This attack has reignited discussions about gun laws and mental health services in Austria. The unity seen among political parties following the incident suggests a national commitment to addressing these critical issues, prompting dialogue about preventive measures to avert future tragedies.

As investigations continue, officials urge anyone with information regarding the gunman or any potential warning signs leading up to the shooting to come forward. This plea for information aims to provide clarity and closure for the victims' families and the community at large, as well as to enhance public safety measures.