A mass shooting in Cetinje, Montenegro, leaves at least 10 dead, including two children, as the country grapples with gun control and mourns the tragedy.
At a Glance
- At least 10 people, including two children, were killed in a mass shooting in Cetinje, Montenegro
- The suspect, Aleksandar Martinovic, 45, died from self-inflicted wounds after the rampage
- The shooting began at a restaurant and continued at three other locations
- Montenegro’s national security council is considering a complete ban on weapon possession
- The country will observe three days of national mourning
Tragedy Unfolds in Cetinje
A historical town of Cetinje, Montenegro, became the scene of a horrific mass shooting that claimed at least 10 lives, including two young children. The incident, which began in a restaurant and spread to three other locations, has left the nation in shock and mourning. The suspect, identified as 45-year-old Aleksandar Martinovic, reportedly killed members of his own family before taking his own life when confronted by police.
The shooting followed a bar brawl and was allegedly fueled by heavy alcohol consumption. Among the victims were two minors and their father, who owned the restaurant where the shooting began. Four people were seriously wounded and remain in critical condition. The tragedy marks the second mass shooting in Cetinje in just three years, following a similar incident in August 2022.
Suspect’s Background and Police Response
Martinovic had a history of illegal weapons possession and a suspended sentence for violent behavior dating back to 2005. As the incident unfolded, special police troops were dispatched to search for the suspect. The manhunt came to a grim conclusion when Martinovic was cornered near his home and took his own life with a gunshot to the head.
National Response and Gun Control Debate
The incident has sparked a serious debate about gun control in Montenegro. The country’s national security council is now considering a complete ban on weapon possession, a move that would mark a significant shift in a nation where many citizens traditionally own firearms. This potential policy change comes as Montenegro faces pressure from the European Union to address issues of organized crime and corruption.
In response to the tragedy, Montenegro will observe three days of national mourning. The government has urged cities to cancel performances and concerts during this period of collective grief. Prime Minister Milojko Spajic expressed deep sorrow over the incident, stating that it has “shrouded our country in black.” President Jakov Milatovic echoed these sentiments, describing the nation as “shocked and stunned” by the events.
Looking Forward
As Montenegro mourns the loss of innocent lives, including young children, the nation faces difficult questions about its gun laws and public safety measures. The tragedy in Cetinje may serve as a catalyst for significant policy changes aimed at preventing future incidents of this nature.
The coming days and weeks will likely see intense discussions among lawmakers, law enforcement, and citizens about the best path forward for a country grappling with the aftermath of this senseless act of violence.
Sources:
At least 10 killed in mass shooting in Montenegro, suspect kills himself
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