Shock and dismay have engulfed Montenegro following a horrifying shooting rampage in the town of Cetinje that resulted in the deaths of 12 individuals, including two children, on January 1, 2025. The attacker, identified as Aco Martinović, aged 45, began his deadly spree after a bar brawl and ultimately took his own life following police confrontation.

Authorities reported that at least four others were wounded during the rampage, which unfolded in a series of violent incidents across multiple locations. This tragic event marks the second mass shooting in Cetinje within three years, with a previous attack resulting in the deaths of 10 people in August 2022, including two children. Interior Minister Danilo Šaranović stated that Martinović shot himself in the head when cornered by police.

'Montenegro has been plunged into mourning,' lamented Prime Minister Milojko Spajić, who announced three days of national mourning. 'This senseless act has brought immeasurable sadness and bitterness to our nation,' he communicated on social media.

The shooting spree commenced post-brawl when Martinović allegedly left the bar, fetched his weapon, and returned to open fire. Initial reports indicated that he killed four people at the bar, then proceeded to target separate locations, ultimately resulting in additional fatalities.

The victims were closely associated with the gunman. National police director Lazar Šcepanović described the motive for the killings as still unclear, adding that some victims were his family members and friends. Amidst the escalating fear and uncertainty in Cetinje, many residents expressed their disbelief and grief.

'We are all in shock,' stated Vanja Popović, a local resident whose relatives perished in the attack. As police initiated an extensive search, roads in and out of the bustling small town — situated roughly 30 kilometers (18 miles) northwest of the capital, Podgorica — were blocked off for hours.

The incident has reignited discussions regarding gun control in Montenegro. Following the tragedy, Prime Minister Spajić proposed potential measures to regulate gun ownership and usage more strictly, signaling a possible shift in Montenegrin policy on firearms.

Montenegro's President, Jakov Milatović, echoed sentiments of deep sorrow, remarking, 'Instead of holiday joy... we have been gripped by sadness over the loss of innocent lives'. His words resonated among a populace bewildered by such violence.