Last updated on August 28th, 2024 at 07:29 am
By the turn of events unfolding as terrible and unexpected, a gunman opened fire in a Zagreb, Croatia nursing home and killed six elderly residents there, while six others were injured. The horrific attack came in early morning hours and shook the peaceful community.
Details of the Attack
- Perpetrator: It had turned out that the gunman was a certain Marko Kovac, 53, who previously had worked in this nursing home. Several months before the incident, he had been fired.
- The victims were all in their 90s, and due to the effects of aging and possible adverse health conditions, were unable to run or defend themselves. Those who were killed included four women and two men, while survivors are elderly victims, too, currently under treatment in various hospitals around the area; some are in critical
Condition.
- Motive: As the investigation is still ongoing, preliminary reports suggest that Kovac was motivated by grievances originating from his termination. Police are also looking into whether mental health problems may have contributed to the mass shooting.
Eyewitness Accounts
Residents and staff in the nursing home described a scene of panic and terror:
- Anna Milosevic, Nurse: “I heard the gunshots and immediately ran for assistance. It was so terrible to see our residents, whom we take care of every day, in this condition. Many were crying and asking for help.”
- Peter Novak, Resident: “We were having breakfast when this happened. He came in and opened fire. There was no chance to react at all.”
Response and Investigation
- Police Action: Quick action by local police, upon receiving the emergency call, managed to apprehend Kovac on the premises without further incidents. He was armed with a licenced handgun.
- Government Response: Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković immediately offered his condolences to the families of those killed and full support from the state authorities to the residents and their families affected by the tragedy. He said all necessary measures will be taken so such a tragedy never happens again.
- Public Reaction: The community is in shock and mourning due to the attack. Vigils and memorial services are planned to remember the victims. Demands for more security at such care facilities and a review of the gun control laws are also being made.
Security Measures
- Since the incident, security for nursing homes and other similar facilities across the country has increased. The Ministry of Health is in the process of reviewing measures put in place for the security of the vulnerable population.
Mental Health and Employment Issues
This accident has triggered a wider debate about mental health support and how to handle disputes in employment. The authorities have strongly called for the improvement of mental health resources and support systems in case of job loss or personal crises.
Today’s tragic shooting at the Zagreb nursing home has left a deep scar on the community, underlining the vulnerabilities in the care system and calling for comprehensive measures to ensure that such a tragedy can never happen again. As investigations continue, support to the victims and their families is paramount, as well as the understanding of wider societal issues that might have contributed to this terrible event.
