Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic has pledged to pay for the funerals of all nine victims of a mass shooting at a school in Serbia.
Eight children and a security guard died during Wednesday (May 3) morning's attack at the Vladislav Ribnikar primary school in the country's capital, Belgrade. Another seven, six students and a teacher, were injured. Doncic has also committed to covering the cost of grief counselling for classmates and staff affected by the attack.
The 24-year-old is a native of fellow Balkan country Slovenia. He has several ties to Serbia, with his father's side of the family of Serbian descent. The shooting happened in the same city where the player's grandmother, aunt, uncle and teenage cousin reside.
"I am heartbroken by the tragic school shooting in Serbia and the loss of lives, including those of innocent school children," a statement by Doncic through his foundation reads. "My thoughts are with the families and the entire community affected by this tragedy.
"Through my foundation, I am exploring both immediate and long-term ways to support the students, faculty, and families affected by the shooting at the Vladislav Ribnikar Elementary School. I am committed and I will continue to share updates and ways to support as details become available."
Doncic's foundation's mission is "improving the health and well-being of children." Doncic added on social media: "Belgrade, I support and stand with you all during this difficult time."
In the aftermath of the shooting, a 13-year-old boy has been arrested in connection with the incident, as have his parents, according to Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic. Police say that the teenage suspect planned the attack for a month and had a list of targets.
It was the first of two mass shootings in Serbia this week. A day later, eight people died, and another 14 were injured in Dubona, a village 37 miles south of Belgrade.
An arrest has since been made on Friday following an extensive search. In response to the week's attacks, President Vucic has pledged the "practical disarmament" of the country amongst several gun control measures announced at the start of a three-day national mourning period.
ESPN reports that Slovenia international Doncic is anticipated to appreciate assistance from other players with Balkan roots in the league. Doncic moved to Real Madrid before playing professionally in the region, having played youth basketball at Union Olimpija, a club based in the Slovenian capital of Ljubljana.
Father Sasha played for the team at the time, towards the end of a career that saw him play professionally for several sides in the country and Serbia. He also represented Yugoslavia before later turning out for the Slovenia national team, as Luka now does too.
The Dallas guard has played at two EuroBasket tournaments, including last summer during the NBA offseason. Doncic also represented them at the 2020 Olympic Games.
