Montenegro was shaken on Wednesday January 1 by a tragic act of violence which left at least twelve victims, including two children. A 45-year-old man, after an argument in a restaurant in the town of Bajice, opened fire, killing several people, before fleeing. The toll increased over the hours, with serious injuries, including four people fighting for their lives.
The suspect, identified as Aco Martinovic, first killed the restaurant owner and his family before traveling to several other locations, continuing his killing spree. After a manhunt, police found the attacker, who committed suicide before he could be apprehended. Although the beginning of the investigation suggested an initial fight which degenerated, the hypothesis of a crime linked to the mafia environment was quickly ruled out by the authorities.
Montenegrin Prime Minister Milojko Spajic announced a three-day national mourning in tribute to the victims. He also stressed that reform of firearms legislation would be considered to avoid such tragedies in the future. Despite this tragedy, investigators rule out any link with organized criminal groups plaguing the region, particularly in the town of Cetinje, where violent score-settling is frequent.
