Montenegro gunman ends own life after killing ten in deadly rampage

Montenegro shooting rampage : A devastating shooting incident unfolded in the quiet town of Cetinje on January 1, 2025, when 45-year-old Aleksandar Martinovic unleashed violence that claimed ten lives, including two children. The suspect, who later attempted to end his own life, succumbed to his injuries while en route to a hospital, Montenegro’s Interior Minister Danilo Saranovic confirmed.

Authorities report that the attack began with a heated altercation at a local bar. Witnesses say Martinovic, visibly intoxicated, left the bar only to return armed, opening fire on patrons. The rampage extended beyond the bar, with Martinovic targeting victims across three other locations in the small town.

Attempts to End the Violence

Police launched an immediate manhunt, deploying special units and sealing off exits to and from Cetinje. Martinovic was eventually cornered near his residence. Facing an inevitable confrontation, he turned the weapon on himself, according to Interior Minister Saranovic. While the suspect initially survived, he died from his injuries during transport to a medical facility.

National Mourning and Official Responses

This Cetinje deadly tragedy has left the country in shock, prompting Prime Minister Milojko Spajic to declare three days of national mourning. Visiting survivors at the hospital, Spajic expressed his condolences and described the incident as a profound national tragedy.

President Jakov Milatovic joined in mourning the victims, calling the events an unbearable loss during what should have been a festive season. Both leaders underscored the need for decisive action to prevent similar incidents. The government is now exploring stricter gun control measures, including a potential ban on civilian firearms, to address the country’s gun violence crisis.

A Pattern of Violence

The shooting has brought back painful memories for Cetinje, a town still healing from a 2022 incident in which another gunman killed ten people before being shot dead. The recurrence of such tragedies has raised questions about the effectiveness of existing measures and the prevalence of firearms in Montenegro.

Experts argue that the region’s history of armed conflict has contributed to a culture where guns are widespread despite strict regulations. Many weapons remain unregistered, complicating law enforcement efforts. Analysts emphasize the need for comprehensive solutions that address both legal loopholes and the cultural significance of firearms in the Balkans.

Calls for Reform

Advocates for gun control have seized on this tragedy to push for policy reforms. Experts in criminology suggest combining tighter firearm laws with mental health support and community-based interventions. These measures, they argue, could reduce the likelihood of individuals resorting to violence in moments of crisis.

As Montenegro grapples with the aftermath of this Montenegro shooting rampage, public pressure on lawmakers is mounting. Citizens demand accountability and action to ensure their safety in the wake of yet another senseless act of violence.

Looking Ahead

This Cetinje deadly tragedy has cast a somber shadow over the new year, forcing Montenegro to confront difficult questions about its relationship with firearms and its capacity to protect its citizens. While mourning continues for the victims, the nation awaits concrete steps from its leaders to address the systemic issues that allowed such violence to unfold.

Montenegro’s response to this crisis will undoubtedly shape its future, testing its resolve to implement meaningful changes and prevent similar tragedies.