A Croatian court has handed down a 50-year prison sentence to a gunman responsible for a mass shooting at a nursing home nearly a year ago. The perpetrator, identified as Kresimir Pahoki, killed six people, including his own mother, and wounded several others in the tragic incident.
Justice Served: Gunman Receives Decades-Long Sentence for Nursing Home Massacre
On Thursday, July 3, 2025, the Municipal Court in Bjelovar, Croatia, delivered a landmark verdict in the case of Kresimir Pahoki. The 52-year-old former fighter from the 1990s ethnic war was found guilty on 13 counts, including murder and attempted murder, stemming from the horrific shooting at a nursing home in Daruvar.
The Tragic Events of July 22
The incident unfolded on July 22, when Pahoki entered the nursing home in Daruvar, a small spa town approximately 80 kilometers (nearly 50 miles) east of Zagreb. His initial stated purpose was to pay his mother’s bills. However, the situation quickly escalated as he opened fire, resulting in immediate fatalities and injuries.
- Five individuals died at the scene of the shooting.
- An additional victim succumbed to their injuries later at a hospital, bringing the total death toll to six.
Defendant’s Stance and Future Actions
During the trial, Pahoki maintained his innocence, stating that he did not feel guilty for his actions. It remains unclear whether he intends to appeal the court’s verdict. The 50-year sentence is a significant outcome in a country where such mass shootings are rare, despite the prevalence of weapons left over from the 1991-1995 war.
Key Takeaways
- Kresimir Pahoki was sentenced to 50 years in prison for the nursing home shooting.
- He was found guilty on 13 counts, including murder and attempted murder.
- Six people died in the attack, including Pahoki’s mother.
- The shooting occurred in Daruvar, a town of about 8,500 residents.
- Pahoki stated he did not feel guilty during the trial.
This case highlights the severe consequences for acts of violence and the Croatian judicial system’s commitment to holding perpetrators accountable.
Sources
- Croatian court sentences gunman to 50 years for nursing home shooting that killed 6 people, ABC News – Breaking News, Latest News and Videos.
