Cetinje, Montenegro — A tragic mass shooting on January 1, 2025, has plunged the nation into grief, as a gunman’s rampage resulted in the deaths of 12 individuals, including two young children. This incident stands as one of the deadliest in Montenegro’s history, drawing comparisons to a similar shooting that occurred in 2022.
The assailant, identified as 45-year-old Aco Martinovic, reportedly began his assault following a dispute at a local bar. Witnesses say Martinovic returned armed, initiating a wave of violence that left four people dead at the bar before he spread his attack to additional locations. His shooting spree claimed the lives of seven men, three women, and two children aged 7 and 9. After the massacre, Martinovic turned the gun on himself while being pursued by law enforcement.
Reacting to the shocking news, residents of Cetinje, a town of around 17,000 people, expressed deep sorrow and disbelief. For many, the victims were familiar faces within the tight-knit community. Local resident Vesko Milosevic lamented the loss, noting the devastating impact the tragedy has had on friends and families alike. “I knew all of these people personally, including the attacker. He must have been out of his mind,” he said.
In response to the shooting, Prime Minister Milojko Spajic announced a three-day national mourning period. He highlighted the pressing need for stricter regulations surrounding firearms in Montenegro, with discussions taking place regarding a potential total ban on guns. The government’s response underscores a growing urgency to address increasing gun violence in the region.
As public outrage mounted, thousands of Montenegrins took to the streets, demanding accountability from security officials and calling for the resignation of Interior Minister Danilo Saranovic. Protesters voiced their frustrations, asserting that government inaction has failed to protect citizens from such heinous acts. “Why did a massacre happen in Cetinje for the second time? Why is no one responsible?” asked Maja Gardašević, a leader among the demonstrators.
The shooting has sparked renewed debates on gun ownership and public safety measures in Montenegro. With a history marred by violence, the need for effective reforms has become increasingly apparent. As the community mourns, citizens are grappling with how to ensure that a tragedy of this magnitude does not happen again.
In the aftermath of this heart-wrenching event, the resilience of the Montenegrin people will be crucial. While the community seeks healing, there is a palpable tension regarding how swiftly and effectively the government will act to prevent future occurrences of such violence. The focus will inevitably shift to how authorities can create a safer environment for all citizens moving forward.