Austrian mayor shot dead

Local news outlet, Kronen Zeitung, indicates that the suspect, known to be a hunter, remains at large and is considered highly dangerous. Police and emergency responders rushed to the scene, with the Austrian special anti-terror unit, Cobra, actively involved in the search efforts.

The incident has claimed another life, with authorities confirming a second victim, who was a local hunting leader. According to Austrian news sources, a third victim may have been shot but is yet to be confirmed officially. Residents have been urged to stay indoors and share warning messages with neighbors.

Oberösterreich Police have put out a press release identifying the shooter as 56-year-old Roland Drexler who is believed to be driving a silver VW Caddy with the license plate RO-231EL.

© Polizei Oberösterreich

Investigations at the crime scenes in Altenfelden and Arnreit are ongoing as police attempt to piece together the circumstances surrounding these violent attacks.

So far, it appears that a long-standing dispute between hunters escalated into the bloodshed. Both Hofer as well as the second victim were hunting colleagues of Roland Drexler who had been previously known for having repeated problems with animal protection services.

Local party leader Florian Hiegelsberger expressed profound grief over the loss of Mayor Hofer who was mayor since 2008.

"I am deeply shocked by what has happened. I personally knew Franz Hofer very well. It is unbelievable what has just taken place."

Governor Thomas Stelzer has also been briefed on the incident, which has left residents in fear.

Additional emergency units, including an armored vehicle, have been deployed during the urgent search for the suspect who reportedly fired at two additional individuals earlier in the day. Police are currently continuing their search for Drexler in a forest.

Further details are being withheld for investigative reasons.

As more information comes in, RTL Today will keep you updated on this story.