A horrific mass shooting in the small town of Cetinje, Montenegro, left 12 people dead, including two children, on January 1, 2025. The shooter, identified as 45-year-old Aco Martinović, took his own life after a violent rampage that began following a bar brawl.

Key Takeaways

  • Incident Overview: Aco Martinović killed 12 people, including his own family members, before committing suicide.
  • Victims: The deceased included the bar owner, his children, and several relatives of the shooter.
  • Government Response: Montenegro declared three days of national mourning and is considering stricter gun control measures.
  • Historical Context: This incident marks the second mass shooting in Cetinje in three years, raising concerns about gun violence in the country.

Details Of The Shooting

The shooting spree began around 5:30 PM at a local bar in Cetinje, where Martinović was present with other patrons. Following a brawl, he left the bar, retrieved a firearm, and returned to open fire, killing four people at the bar. He then continued his attack at three additional locations, ultimately claiming the lives of 12 individuals.

The victims included:

  • Four individuals at the bar: The bar owner and his children.
  • Additional victims: Relatives and friends of the shooter, highlighting the personal nature of the tragedy.

Shooter’s Background

Aco Martinović had a history of violent behavior and illegal weapons possession. He received a suspended sentence in 2005 for violent conduct and was known in the community for erratic behavior. Authorities reported that he had been drinking heavily prior to the attack.

Community Reaction

The shooting has sent shockwaves through the small community of Cetinje, which has a population of approximately 17,000. Residents expressed disbelief and sorrow, with many attending candlelight vigils to honor the victims. Police Commissioner Lazar Šćepanović described the event as one of the biggest tragedies in Montenegro’s history.

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Government Measures

In response to the tragedy, Prime Minister Milojko Spajić announced a national mourning period and stated that the government would consider a complete ban on private gun ownership. This incident has reignited discussions about gun control in Montenegro, a country known for its high rate of gun ownership due to cultural factors.

Conclusion

The mass shooting in Cetinje is a stark reminder of the ongoing issues surrounding gun violence and mental health in society. As the nation mourns, the government faces pressure to implement effective measures to prevent such tragedies in the future. The community’s grief is palpable, and the call for change is louder than ever as Montenegro grapples with the aftermath of this devastating event.

Sources

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