A 45-year-old gunman identified as Aleksandar Martinovic went on a deadly rampage Wednesday in the small town of Cetinje, Montenegro, killing at least 10 people and injuring four others critically, police said. This incident marks one of the worst mass shootings in the Balkan nation’s history.
The shooting began at a local restaurant, where Martinovic killed four people before moving on to three other locations. Among the victims were a family member, two children, and three other individuals, according to authorities.
Police reported that Martinovic, who had a history of illegal weapons possession, was heavily intoxicated before the attack. Witnesses said the suspect appeared agitated, sparking a confrontation that escalated into gunfire.
Martinovic remains at large, prompting a large-scale manhunt in the rugged hills surrounding Cetinje, a town located about 38 km (24 miles) west of the capital, Podgorica. Special police units, anti-terror squads, and a drone equipped with thermal imaging have been deployed in the search.
“The perimeter is narrowing. We are working tirelessly to apprehend the suspect and ensure public safety,” said Police Director Lazar Scepanovic.
Residents of Cetinje have been advised to stay indoors as police cordoned off parts of the town, which was eerily silent except for law enforcement activity.
Prime Minister Milojko Spajic called the shootings a “terrible tragedy” and declared three days of national mourning.
President Jakov Milatovic expressed his shock and grief, saying, “We are horrified by this attack. Our thoughts are with the victims, and we pray for the recovery of the injured.”
Flags across the nation were lowered to half-staff, and public gatherings were canceled as Montenegro mourned.
While Montenegro has a deeply rooted gun culture, mass shootings are rare in the country of 605,000 people. This tragedy comes just over a year after another mass shooting in Cetinje, where 11 people, including two children, were killed.
Officials have ruled out organized crime as a motive for Wednesday’s attack, stating that initial investigations point to personal disputes and heavy alcohol consumption as contributing factors.
Video footage from local news outlets showed law enforcement patrolling snow-covered streets adorned with festive holiday lights. Residents, still in shock, have retreated to their homes.
“This is a moment of collective grief and reflection for our nation,” said Spajic.
The investigation continues as police work to locate and apprehend the suspect. Authorities have not yet confirmed the motive behind the attack.
