A tragic mass shooting in southern Montenegro has claimed the lives of 12 people, including two children, and left four others seriously injured.
The attack, described by authorities as a consequence of “disturbed interpersonal relations,” occurred on Wednesday evening in the Cetinje area.
The gunman, identified as 45-year-old Aleksandar Martinović, reportedly began his killing spree at 5:30 pm local time inside a restaurant.
According to police, the attack was triggered by a verbal argument between guests.
Martinović killed members of his own family, the restaurant owner, and the owner’s children, aged 10 and 13, before moving to other locations to continue the attack.
Police say the suspect had been heavily intoxicated before the violence unfolded.
The attacker fled the scene but was eventually surrounded by law enforcement.
After refusing to surrender, Martinović fatally injured himself. He was pronounced dead on the way to the hospital.
Prime Minister Milojko Spajic condemned the act as a “senseless tragedy” that has left the nation in mourning.
“This senseless act has caused immeasurable sadness and bitterness in each of us. There are no words of comfort,” Spajic wrote on social media.
The Montenegrin government has declared three days of national mourning, beginning Thursday, to honor the victims.
Spajic also announced that the country’s security council would urgently discuss measures to prevent future incidents, including a possible complete ban on private gun ownership.
Mass shootings are uncommon in Montenegro, a small Balkan nation. However, this tragedy comes just two years after a similar incident in Cetinje, where a man killed several people, including children, during a family dispute.
Interior Minister Danilo Saranovic labeled the attack as a grim result of personal conflict, underscoring the devastating impact on the community.
The government and law enforcement agencies have pledged to take swift action to address public safety concerns, ensuring such a tragedy does not repeat itself.
This attack has left a profound mark on the country, with citizens and leaders united in mourning and reflection.
