Tragedy Strikes Montenegro: Mass Shooting Claims 12 Lives, Sparks National Mourning

A mass shooting in Montenegro has left 12 individuals dead, including two children, leading to national mourning and a call for a review of gun ownership laws. The assailant, identified as Aleksandar Martinović, 45, reportedly acted after an argument in a restaurant, eventually taking his own life when confronted by police. The incident highlights the growing concern over interpersonal violence in the region.

The small Balkan nation of Montenegro is reeling after a tragic mass shooting that has resulted in the death of 12 people, including two young children. The incident occurred Wednesday afternoon in the Cetinje area, where a man named Aleksandar Martinović, 45, opened fire at various locations, including a local restaurant. Reports indicate that the violence erupted following a verbal altercation among patrons.

According to authorities, Martinović targeted members of his own family, as well as two children belonging to the restaurant owner, aged 10 and 13. Following the shootings, four others were hospitalized with severe injuries. After initially fleeing the scene, the gunman reportedly took his own life when surrounded by police, who had requested he surrender.

Montenegro’s Prime Minister, Milojko Spajic, expressed deep sorrow over the senseless act, which he described as having cast a pall over the nation. In response, he announced three days of national mourning beginning Thursday, underscoring the profound impact on the community. He remarked that “there are no words of comfort” for such a tragedy.

The Interior Minister, Danilo Saranovic, labeled the attack as stemming from "disturbed interpersonal relations," suggesting underlying social issues may have contributed to the violence. Alcohol consumption was reportedly a factor, as the shooter was said to have been drinking heavily prior to the incident.

In the aftermath, Spajic indicated that the security council would urgently evaluate measures to enhance public safety, potentially even considering a total ban on civilian firearms. Mass shootings remain rare within Montenegro, adding to the shock felt by citizens following this tragic event. The last substantial case occurred in 2022 and also resulted in multiple fatalities amid familial disputes, hinting at possible societal tensions that require addressing.