A tragic mass shooting in Cetinje, Montenegro, has claimed 10 lives, including two children, sparking demands for gun control reform nationwide.
A Devastating Incident in Cetinje
The small town of Cetinje, Montenegro, has been thrust into mourning due to a mass shooting that resulted in ten deaths, among them two children. The tragedy unfolded when Aleksandar Martinovic, aged 45, engaged in an episode of violence that started at a local restaurant. Reports suggest a bar brawl was a precursor to the gruesome sequence that spanned three locations. Martinovic ultimately ended his reign of terror by taking his own life.
💔 Tragedy in Montenegro: A gunman killed 10 people, including 2 children, in a mass shooting at a restaurant in Cetinje on New Year’s Day. Victims include the restaurant owner & the shooter's own family. 4 others are critically injured.
The assailant fled the scene, triggering… pic.twitter.com/PpLvyDHJFK
— Roykey’s No Filter! (@RoykeyNo) January 1, 2025
The suspect reportedly killed members of his own family. His rampage in Cetinje serves as the second mass shooting for the town in just three years. With four others now in critical condition and fighting for their lives, the community is grappling with the extent of the violence. Martinovic’s troubled history includes illegal weapons possession and a suspended sentence for actions dating back to 2005.
😱 Bloody shooting in Montenegro: 12 dead, including 2 children – RTCG .
Yesterday in Cetinje, a man shot 4 people in a bar, then continued shooting in the street. The victims were 2 children and 10 adults. 4 injured are in "critical condition". The shooter shot himself.
View… pic.twitter.com/ReakvkZJJK
— Uncensored News (@uncensorednews9) January 2, 2025
Consequences and Reactions
The horrifying incident has prompted Montenegrin authorities to consider tighter gun controls, possibly leading to an all-encompassing weapons ban. This impending decision reflects the urgency to prevent future occurrences. Montenegro, known for its strong gun culture, with citizens traditionally owning firearms, faces complex challenges ahead. The government is responding to these calls for reform amid a backdrop of organized crime and corruption, issues being addressed under the pressure of the European Union.
“This senseless act has caused immeasurable sadness and bitterness in us. There are no words of comfort” – Milojko Spajic.
Three days of national mourning have been declared in a show of solidarity. Prime Minister Milojko Spajic expressed profound sorrow, stating, “This senseless act has caused immeasurable sadness and bitterness.” Cities nationwide have been urged to cancel public events and concerts during this time as a mark of respect and reflection for the deceased.
Looking Forward
As Montenegro completes its mourning period, the focus will likely shift back to legislative change and preventing further tragedies. President Jakov Milatovic has stated his profound shock and sadness regarding this incident, underscoring the importance of community solidarity in the face of such loss.
“Instead of holiday joy, we have been gripped by sadness over the loss of innocent lives” – President Jakov Milatovic.
As the investigation continues, Montenegro’s national security council considers the gravity of implementing more stringent measures on weapon possession. The nation remains united in its grief, hopeful that change will honor the victims and ensure a safer future for its citizens.
Sources:
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/01/world/europe/montenegro-shooting.html
