Belgrade, Serbia – The tragic shooting that took place at Belgrade’s Vladislav Ribnikar school on May 3, 2023, shocked the nation of Serbia. The incident, involving the deaths of eight children, a school guard, and multiple injuries, left the country reeling in disbelief. The shooter, a 13-year-old student, took the lives of innocent victims within the school’s corridors, leaving a trail of devastation in his wake.
The aftermath of the shooting saw further tragedy unfold, as a 20-year-old man went on a shooting rampage near the capital, killing nine and injuring 12 others, mainly young people. The events of that day left families shattered, communities in mourning, and the entire country grappling with the harsh reality of such senseless violence.
For Ninela Radicevic, the mother of 11-year-old Ana Bozovic, who lost her life in the school shooting, the pain of losing her daughter is still fresh and unbearable. Radicevic’s grief serves as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact of such a horrific event on the lives of those left behind. As she grieves the loss of her daughter, Radicevic has become a vocal advocate for keeping the memory of the victims alive, ensuring that their sacrifice is not forgotten.
In the wake of the tragedy, the parents of the slain children have been actively involved in efforts to commemorate the lives lost and seek justice for their loved ones. Calls for increased awareness, remembrance events, and support for those affected have echoed throughout the community, as Serbia grapples with the aftermath of the shootings.
The upcoming anniversary of the tragic events will be marked with a commemorative ceremony near the school, featuring art installations, discussions with experts, and films honoring the victims. The program, named “Awakening,” symbolizes a collective call for introspection and reckoning in a nation still haunted by its history of violence and conflict.
As Serbia continues to come to terms with the shootings, questions linger about the role of society in preventing such tragedies in the future. The need for greater awareness, activism, and societal change remains pressing, as the wounds of the past year continue to heal slowly but surely. In the face of unimaginable loss and grief, the resilience and courage of those affected serve as a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.