In a tragic aftermath of the Belgrade school shooting that devastated the community, the parents of the teenage shooter have received prison sentences for their role in the circumstances surrounding the crime. The ruling spotlights discussions on accountability and gun safety in Serbia.**
Parents of Belgrade School Shooter Sentenced Amid National Tragedy**
Parents of Belgrade School Shooter Sentenced Amid National Tragedy**
Parents jailed following the 2023 school shooting in Serbia that left nine children and a security guard dead, raising questions of responsibility and safety.**
The parents of a 13-year-old boy responsible for the May 2023 mass shooting at Vladislav Ribnikar elementary school in Belgrade, which resulted in the deaths of nine students and a security guard, have been sentenced to prison. The boy's father, Vladimir Kecmanoviæ, was handed a 14-and-a-half-year sentence, while his mother, Miljana Kecmanoviæ, received a three-year sentence. Additionally, Nemanja Marinkovic, the boy's shooting instructor, was sentenced to one year and three months.
Due to his age, the shooter, referred to only as KK, cannot be tried for his actions but has been held in a psychiatric facility since the attack. His parents were prosecuted for "serious acts against general safety" for their failure to secure firearms and ammunition. Despite denying the accusations, the trial, conducted behind closed doors, concluded with Vladimir being found guilty of jeopardizing public safety, especially after providing his son with access to a gun, and neglecting his parental duties. Miljana was convicted solely of neglect but was acquitted of charges related to weapon possession.
The court session in Belgrade saw KK speak as a witness, leaving psychiatric care for the first time since the shooting. His testimony, which involved answering questions from bereaved parents and family lawyers, aimed to uncover the motives behind his tragic actions. A legal representative for the victims described the trial as profoundly disturbing, reflecting the pain experienced by the families.
This incident not only marks a significant moment in Serbia's history but also raises broader discussions regarding gun laws and child safety in the country. Just days later, Serbia was rocked by another mass shooting, leading to calls for more stringent measures to safeguard against future tragedies. As the community continues to mourn, the complexities of accountability and societal responsibility linger in discussions about the aftermath of this devastating event.
