Eduardo Leite expresses regret over the school attack in RS and vows to uncover the truth behind the incident: 'unexplicable and needs resolution'
In a tragic turn of events, a 16-year-old teenager carried out an attack at the Maria Nascimento Giacomazzi Municipal School in Estação, Rio Grande do Sul, on July 8, 2025. The small city, home to around 5,500 inhabitants, was left reeling from the incident that resulted in the death of an 8-year-old child, Vitor André Kungel Gambirazi, and injuries to three other children and a teacher.
The attacker, armed with two machetes and firecrackers, entered the school calmly around 10 a.m., leaving his bicycle on the street. He presented a résumé at the secretary's office and asked to use the bathroom before launching the attack. The teenager, who is reported to be a psychiatric patient, was eventually restrained by locals and apprehended by the Military Brigade.
The incident has deeply affected the community, with classes in the municipal school network and Estação being suspended indefinitely. Social and psychological support teams have been mobilized to assist families and the school community during this difficult time. The prefecture is providing continuous support and assistance.
Governor Eduardo Leite has expressed deep solidarity to the affected families and residents, emphasizing that the incident must not be normalized or forgotten. He has pledged to strengthen school protection and care strategies, and has ordered reinforcement of such measures in all schools across the state. The Health Secretariat has also been directed to act in support of the school community.
Authorities are still investigating the motive behind the attack, with no specific details released beyond initial reports. The teenager had no prior criminal record, and police are continuing their investigation. The incident has reignited discussions about school safety and adolescent mental health in Brazil.
The community of Estação is focusing on recovery and solidarity, while authorities seek justice and answers for the victims and their families. The governor has emphasized that the safety and well-being of the community's children are of utmost importance, and efforts will be made to ensure a secure environment for all students.
[1] Local News Outlet A [2] National News Outlet B [3] City Hall Press Release [4] Statement from the Governor's Office
- The tragic school attack in Estação, Rio Grande do Sul, has led to discussions about education-and-self-development, adolescent mental health, and crime-and-justice, stirring demands for stronger school safety measures and better mental health care services nationwide.
- Beyond general-news and politics, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for comprehensive education-and-self-development programs and mental health support services to address the root causes of such tragic events, with local outlets (A) and national media outlets (B) closely following the investigation and recovery efforts, while City Hall (3) and the Governor's Office (4) are providing ongoing support to the affected families and community.
