In a shocking turn of events, Montenegro is grappling with the aftermath of a mass shooting that left 12 individuals dead, including two children, in the Cetinje region. The grisly incident occurred on Wednesday following a violent disagreement among patrons at a local restaurant, prompting immediate emergency responses from police and medical teams.
Authorities identified the shooter as 45-year-old Aleksandar Martinović, who reportedly opened fire at around 5:30 PM local time. The violence resulted in the deaths of family members of the gunman, along with two children of the restaurant owner, aged 10 and 13. Witnesses conveyed the chaos that ensued as the gunman launched attacks in multiple locations, leading to a widespread state of emergency.
Following the shooting spree, the attacker attempted to flee but succumbed to fatal self-inflicted injuries while being cornered by law enforcement who urged him to surrender. He was declared dead upon arrival at a nearby hospital.
Prime Minister Milojko Spajic expressed his grief on social media, describing the senseless act as one that has enveloped the nation in profound sorrow. In recognition of the tragedy, the government announced a three-day period of national mourning beginning Thursday, with flags flown at half-mast across the country.
Interior Minister Danilo Saranovic specified that the incident stemmed from "disturbed interpersonal relations," hinting at the underlying issues connected to the tragic event. Alcohol consumption prior to the shooting was noted as a factor.
In response to escalating concerns over public safety, the Prime Minister highlighted the need for urgent discussions on the potential implementation of stricter gun control measures, including a total ban on weapon possession. While mass shootings are infrequent in Montenegro, this harrowing event has reignited discussions about violence and security within the Balkan nation.
