China News Service, November 3, reported that on the evening of November 2, local time, there were multiple shootings in Vienna, the Austrian capital, resulting in many deaths. At least one suspect is still at large.
Austrian Chancellor Kurz called this a terrorist attack and promised to take action to combat it. Many European politicians expressed their support.
At least one suspect is at large in 6 locations in central Vienna
According to reports, the shooting took place a few hours before Austria re-imposed restrictions.
When the incident happened, many bars and restaurants were crowded with people.
The Vienna police confirmed that there were shootings at six locations in the center of Vienna, within a 10-minute walk of each other.
In addition, multiple attackers participated in each attack location.
The Austrian Minister of the Interior said at a press conference that the attack caused many deaths and that at least one attacker is currently at large. He called on the public to avoid the city center of Vienna as much as possible.
The Austrian police previously reported that the incident also resulted in at least 15 injuries, many in critical condition.
According to reports, the dead included an assailant.
The local media reported that the incident resulted in at least seven deaths and at least one of the victims was a police officer.
However, this news has not yet been officially confirmed.
"Disgusting terrorist attack"
On the evening of November 2, local time, Austrian Chancellor Kurz condemned the shooting as a "disgusting terrorist attack."
He posted on social media that “we are going through difficult times” and “our police will take decisive action against the perpetrators of this heinous terrorist attack.”
He added, "We will never be intimidated by terrorism, and we will take all means to combat this attack."
The Czech police stated that they have started random inspections at the border with Austria.
The Czech police posted on social media, “As a preventive measure against the terrorist attack in Vienna, the police conduct random checks on passing vehicles and passengers at the border crossing with Austria.”
Many European politicians extend condolences
After the shooting, French President Macron said on social media, “The French people are as shocked and sorrowful as the Austrian people.” The German Foreign Ministry said that it would not “give in to the hatred that divides our society” and “it’s difficult here. At the moment, our hearts are with the wounded and victims."
Italian Prime Minister Conte said, "In our common European homeland, there is no room for hatred and violence."
The Italian Foreign Minister issued a statement saying that "Europe must respond."
In addition, the leaders of the Netherlands, the Czech Republic and Greece also extended their condolences to Austria.
EU Council President Michel said, “Europe strongly condemns this cowardly behavior that violates life and human values. After the terrible attack tonight, my heart is with the victims and the Austrian people. We stand with Austria. "
The President of the European Commission von der Lein said she was "shocked and sad" and said that she was "with the families of the victims and the Austrian people."