A 45-year-old gunman identified as Aco Martinovic went on a shooting rampage in the small country of Montenegro, killing at least 12 people, including two children and his own family members. The incident occurred in a bar in the western town of Cetinje after a brawl ensued. The attacker, who had a history of violent behavior, later shot himself in the head while being surrounded by police. This was the second shooting rampage in Cetinje in the past three years. The government has declared three days of national mourning.
Montenegro Mass Shooting: 12 Dead, Gunman Kills Self
Cetinje, Montenegro - A 45-year-old man identified as Aco Martinovic embarked on a horrific shooting rampage in the small Balkan nation of Montenegro, claiming the lives of at least 12 people, including two children and his own family members.
The incident unfolded at a bar in the western town of Cetinje, where a brawl had reportedly broken out. Martinovic, who had a history of violent behavior, opened fire on those present, unleashing a torrent of bullets.
Witnesses described scenes of chaos and terror as people desperately sought cover. Among the victims were the gunman's ex-wife and their son. Martinovic himself was later cornered by police and fatally shot himself in the head.
Background
Montenegro has a relatively low rate of gun violence, with strict laws governing firearm ownership. However, this incident marks the second mass shooting in Cetinje in the past three years. In 2019, a 34-year-old man killed 11 people in a casino after a gambling dispute.
Martinovic's violent past included a conviction for domestic violence in 2019. He was also known to have been involved in bar fights and had been banned from several establishments in Cetinje.
Aftermath
The government of Montenegro has declared three days of national mourning in the wake of the tragedy. President Milo Djukanovic condemned the incident as "a cowardly act" and called for a thorough investigation.
The families of the victims have expressed shock and grief. Local residents are grappling with the trauma of the event and the realization that their once-peaceful community has been scarred by such a senseless act of violence.
Top 5 FAQs
1. What was the motive behind the shooting?
Authorities are still investigating the motive, but sources suggest it may have stemmed from a personal grudge or family dispute.
2. How did the gunman obtain a firearm?
Montenegro has strict gun laws, but it is possible that Martinovic acquired the weapon illegally.
3. Were there any warning signs before the attack?
Martinovic had a history of violent behavior and had been banned from several bars in Cetinje. However, there were no specific warnings that he might commit such a heinous act.
4. What measures are being taken to prevent future shootings?
The government has vowed to strengthen security measures and review firearm regulations. However, some experts believe that more needs to be done to address the underlying social factors that contribute to gun violence.
5. How can the victims and their families be supported?
The government has pledged financial assistance to the families of the deceased and survivors. Trauma counseling and other support services are also being provided.
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