According to police, the attacks took place in as many as six different locations on Monday evening 2 November 2020. A suspect is among the deceased.

At this stage, law enforcement is not ruling out the possibility of the attack being an act of terror, partly because the shootings occurred near the city’s central synagogue. At least 14 people were wounded in the gunfire and were taken to hospital for treatment – seven of them are in a critical condition.

Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz has condemned the attack and vowed to fight acts of terrorism in the country. “We are experiencing difficult hours in our republic,” Kurz said on Twitter. “Our police will act decisively against the perpetrators of this repulsive terror attack,” Kurz said. “We will never be intimidated by terrorism and we will fight this attack with all means.”

Several hours following the shooting, locals were advised to avoid nearby public places and public transportation. The attack took place a day before stricter restrictions were set to be implemented.

The international community has reacted with complete shock to the tragedy while also condemning terrorism.

“We share the shock and sadness of the Austrians after an attack in Vienna. This is our Europe. Our enemies need to know who they are dealing with. We won’t give in to anything,” said France’s Emmanuel Macron, whose country has also had its fair share of suspected terror attacks.

While European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has also echoed the calls for solidarity with Austria.

“I am shocked and saddened by the brutal attack that took place in Vienna. My thoughts are with the families of the victims and the Austrian people. Europe stands in full solidarity with Austria. We are stronger than hatred and terror,” von der Leyen said.

The South African