Montenegro Mass Shooting Leaves 10 Dead, including Children
A horrific act of violence has shocked Montenegro, leaving ten people dead and four injured after a gunman opened fire in the town of Cetinje, approximately 18 miles northwest of the capital, Podgorica. Among the victims are two children, adding a layer of unspeakable tragedy to the event.
Authorities have identified the suspect as 45-year-old Aco Martinovic. Interior Minister Danilo Saranovic confirmed that a manhunt is underway, with special police units actively searching for the perpetrator. “At this moment, we are focused on arresting him,” Minister Saranovic stated.
The attack, which followed a bar brawl, resulted in the deaths of the bar owner, the owner’s children, and several members of the suspect’s own family, according to Minister saranovic. The chilling details underscore the devastating scope of the violence.
President Jakov Milatovic expressed his profound sorrow on X, formerly known as Twitter, stating, “Instead of holiday joy… we have been gripped by sadness over the loss of innocent lives.” The nation is grappling with grief and disbelief in the wake of this senseless act.
Prime Minister Milojko Spajic visited the hospital where the injured are receiving treatment and declared three days of national mourning. “This is a terrible tragedy that has affected us all,” mr. Spajic said, emphasizing the widespread impact of the event. “All police teams are out.”
Reports from state broadcaster RTCG indicate that Martinovic had a history of erratic behavior and prior arrests for illegal weapons possession. The suspect allegedly retrieved a firearm from his home after the initial altercation before returning to the bar and opening fire. He then reportedly continued his rampage at another location.
Montenegro, with a population of approximately 620,000, has a notable gun culture, with many citizens traditionally owning firearms. This tragic event marks the second mass shooting in Cetinje, the former royal capital, within the past three years. A similar attack in August 2022 resulted in ten fatalities, including two children, before the perpetrator was fatally shot by a bystander.
This is a developing story.Further updates will be provided as they become available.
