In a shocking incident that has left Montenegro reeling, a gunman in the Cetinje area has opened fire, claiming the lives of 12 people, including two young children aged 10 and 13. The attacker, identified as 45-year-old Aleksandar Martinović, reportedly initiated the carnage following a verbal altercation in a local restaurant where most casualties occurred.
Authorities confirmed that the list of victims included members of Martinović's own family and the restaurant owner, exacerbating the tragedy's profound impact on the community. Following the chaotic events that unfolded around 17:30 local time, Martinović fled the scene but was subsequently cornered by police. He fatally injured himself during the standoff and succumbed to his wounds before reaching the hospital.
Montenegro's Prime Minister, Milojko Spajic, expressed deep sorrow, stating that the "senseless act has caused immeasurable sadness and bitterness" in the nation. To honor the victims and respond to the extraordinary violence, the government has declared a national mourning period of three days.
Interior Minister Danilo Saranovic attributed the rampage to "disturbed interpersonal relations" and noted that alcohol consumption may have played a role in the assailant’s actions. Reports indicate that four individuals were hospitalized with serious injuries as a result of the shooting.
This incident has reignited discussions surrounding firearm regulations, with the Prime Minister revealing that the security council will urgently explore options for public safety, including potential bans on weapon possession. Such mass shootings are notably rare in Montenegro, making this tragedy all the more shocking for the small Balkan nation still grappling with the aftermath of a similar incident in 2022.
