In a tragic event that has sent shockwaves through Croatia, at least six individuals lost their lives in a mass shooting at a nursing home in the town of Daruvar. The incident occurred on Monday, and initial reports reveal that five victims, including one employee, were killed at the scene, with another succumbing to injuries in the hospital.
The gunman, whose identity has not been disclosed, initiated the attack within the care facility and subsequently fled. He was apprehended hours later in a local cafe, and found in possession of unregistered firearms. The severity of the situation is compounded by reports from police that several other individuals sustained injuries, with four currently in critical condition.
The community of Daruvar, a small spa town with a population of around 7,000, has been left reeling by the violence. The local mayor, Damir Lnenicek, expressed his disbelief and sorrow, reflecting the broader community’s shock and grief. At the time of the shooting, the nursing home housed approximately 20 residents.
This incident marks one of the deadliest shootings in Croatia since its independence in 1991 and highlights the broader issues of gun control and public safety within the region. Croatia ranks 25th in Europe for gun ownership, with 13.2 guns per 100 people, according to the 2017 Small Arms Survey. The tragedy follows recent mass shootings in neighboring Serbia, which similarly sparked significant public debate about gun laws and safety.
