A horrific mass shooting in Cetinje, Montenegro, has left the nation in mourning after a gunman killed 12 people, including two children, before taking his own life. The incident, which occurred on January 1, 2025, marks one of the deadliest shootings in the country’s history, following a similar tragedy in 2022.
Key Takeaways
- Incident Overview: Aco Martinovic, 45, opened fire in multiple locations after a bar brawl, killing 12 individuals.
- Victims: The victims included family members and friends of the shooter, highlighting the personal nature of the tragedy.
- Government Response: Montenegro has declared three days of national mourning and is considering stricter gun control measures.
- Public Reaction: Protests erupted demanding accountability from security officials, reflecting widespread anger and fear in the community.
Details of the Shooting
The shooting began around 5:30 PM local time when Martinovic, after a confrontation at a bar, returned with a firearm and opened fire. He initially killed four people at the bar, including the owner and his children, before moving to other locations where he continued his rampage, ultimately claiming 12 lives.
The victims included:
- Seven Men
- Three Women
- Two Children (ages 7 and 9)
After the shooting, Martinovic attempted to flee but was later found by police. He died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound while being apprehended.
Community Impact
Residents of Cetinje, a town of approximately 17,000, expressed shock and grief. Many knew the victims personally, and the community is grappling with the aftermath of such violence. Local resident Vesko Milosevic described the event as a catastrophe, stating, "I knew all of these people personally, also the attacker. I think when he did that, he was out of his mind."
In response to the tragedy, Prime Minister Milojko Spajic announced a national mourning period and emphasized the need for stricter gun control laws. The government is considering a total ban on firearms, reflecting a growing concern over gun violence in the region.
Protests and Calls for Accountability
In the wake of the shooting, thousands of Montenegrins took to the streets to demand the resignation of top security officials, including Interior Minister Danilo Saranovic. Protesters accused the government of failing to protect citizens and called for immediate action to address the rampant gun culture in the country.
Maja Gardašević, a protest organizer, questioned the lack of accountability, asking, "Why did a massacre happen in Cetinje for the second time? Why is no one responsible?"
Looking Ahead
The Montenegrin government is under pressure to implement effective measures to prevent future tragedies. With a history of gun violence, including a similar mass shooting in 2022, the need for comprehensive reforms in gun ownership and public safety is more urgent than ever.
As the nation mourns, the focus will be on healing and ensuring that such a tragedy does not occur again. The community’s resilience will be tested as they navigate the aftermath of this devastating event.
Sources
- Gunman kills 12 in Montenegro small-town rampage, Reuters.
- Montenegro gunman kills at least 12 before shooting himself, AP News.
- Montenegro mourns after gunman kills at least 12 people before shooting himself, VOA – Voice of America English News.
- Thousands protest in Montenegro to demand ouster of top security officials over mass shooting, AP News.
- Gunman kills at least 10 people, including 2 children, in Montenegro, PBS.
