Belgrade, Serbia – A tragic school shooting rocked the nation last year, leaving many in shock and mourning the loss of innocent lives. What initially seemed like a typical day at a school in central Belgrade turned into a nightmare when a 13-year-old student opened fire, claiming the lives of four individuals, including 11-year-old Ana Bozovic.
The devastating incident, which took place on May 3, 2023, resulted in a total of 10 fatalities, with eight children and a school guard losing their lives. The community was left reeling from the senseless act of violence, as mass shootings are rare in Serbia and had never before occurred at a school.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the victims’ families, including Ninela Radicevic, have been advocating for justice and remembrance. Ninela, a grieving mother, has made it her mission to ensure that the memory of the children killed that day is not forgotten. She believes that the country must confront the tragedy and learn from it to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The anniversary of the shooting will be marked by a day-long commemoration ceremony near the school, featuring art installations, discussions with experts, and films honoring the victims. The program, titled “Awakening,” serves as a reminder for Serbia to reflect on its past and address issues of violence and trauma that continue to plague the nation.
In response to the shootings, Serbia’s government implemented measures to enhance school security, including a gun crackdown and increased counseling services for students. The perpetrators of the shootings have been apprehended, with legal proceedings underway to hold them and their families accountable for their actions.
Despite the efforts to address the root causes of violence in society, many feel that more must be done to prevent future tragedies. Dragan Popadic, a psychology professor, highlights the deep-seated issues that have contributed to a culture of violence in Serbia, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to address these underlying issues.
As Serbia grapples with the aftermath of the tragic events, families like Ninela Radicevic’s continue to push for change and remembrance. Their resilience and determination serve as a reminder of the importance of confronting past traumas and working towards a safer and more compassionate society.