Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Top News
Top News
World

Serbia Grapples With Aftermath Of School Shooting Tragedy

In this photo taken on Saturday, April 27, 2024, framed photographs of Ana Bozovic, a slain elementary school student, are on display in her family living room in Belgrade, Serbia. The 11-year-old Ana

An unthinkable tragedy struck central Belgrade last year when an 11-year-old girl, Ana Bozovic, was among the victims of a school shooting that left 10 people dead. The incident, which took place on May 3, 2023, shocked Serbia, a nation unaccustomed to mass shootings, especially within school premises.

The shooting spree continued the following day when a 20-year-old man went on a rampage outside the capital, resulting in nine deaths and 12 injuries, predominantly among young people.

The aftermath of the incidents left families shattered, with one mother, Ninela Radicevic, leading efforts to ensure the memory of the victims, including her daughter, Ana, is not forgotten. Radicevic emphasized the need for the country to confront the tragedy and not rush to move on, advocating for a deeper societal introspection.

As the first anniversary of the tragic event approaches, a commemoration ceremony named 'Awakening' is planned near the school, featuring various activities to honor the victims and promote awareness. Parents of the slain children have been actively involved in advocating for change, including calls to convert the school into a memorial center.

Second shooting spree outside capital results in 9 deaths and 12 injuries.
11-year-old Ana Bozovic among 10 victims in school shooting.
Families devastated, mother Ninela Radicevic leads efforts to honor victims.
Commemoration ceremony 'Awakening' planned near school for first anniversary.
Parents advocate for converting school into memorial center.
Government implements gun crackdown and provides counseling services.
Legal proceedings initiated against perpetrators and families.
Public outrage leads to protests and calls for media reforms.
Experts stress need for deeper societal examination to prevent future tragedies.
Ninela Radicevic urges national reflection and community building for a safer society.

The government responded to the shootings by implementing a gun crackdown, collecting thousands of weapons, and providing counseling services. Legal proceedings against the perpetrators and their families have been initiated, although some trials are yet to commence.

The incidents sparked public outrage and demands for accountability, leading to street protests and calls for media reforms to combat hate speech. While some progress has been made in addressing the trauma and insecurity caused by the shootings, experts believe a deeper societal examination is necessary to prevent such tragedies in the future.

Ninela Radicevic lamented the lack of a national catharsis following the events, urging for a more profound reflection on the underlying issues that contribute to violence in society. She emphasized the importance of acknowledging past mistakes and working towards a safer and more compassionate community.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.