On December 12, 2024, Serbia witnessed the conclusion of a deeply unsettling chapter as the Smederevo Higher Court convicted Uros Blazic, 22, for his role in one of two mass shootings reshaping the nation’s discourse on violence and gun control. Blazic received the maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment following his brutal attack on May 4, 2023, which left nine people dead and another twelve injured across two villages near Belgrade.
The court's deliberations detailed how Blazic unleashed terror on unsuspecting young people enjoying a spring evening, brandishing an automatic rifle. His first target was the village of Malo Orasje, where he killed six individuals, including two minors aged just 14 and 17, and injured four others. This shockwave of violence did not end there; Blazic fled the scene only to stop again to fire at four people working on fencing, all of whom sustained injuries. He then drove to Dubona, where he continued his rampage at the local primary school, resulting in more casualties, including siblings among the dead.
Blazic's actions were shocking, especially as they followed closely behind another tragic incident—a school shooting where a 13-year-old boy killed nine classmates and a security guard at Vladislav Ribnikar elementary school. The aftermath of these back-to-back tragedies ignited outrage across the nation, leading to widespread protests against gun violence and the pervasive illegal arms culture.
The legal proceedings took on heightened importance due to the intense public response to the shootings. Concerned citizens took to the streets demanding stricter gun laws and accountability for those who facilitate illegal weapon ownership. This wave of protests pushed the higher court, initially set to host the trial in Smederevo, to relocate proceedings to Belgrade, where public sentiment could be adequately addressed.
Uros Blazic's father, Radisa, was also found guilty during this trial, facilitating the access to weapons used by his son. He too was sentenced to 20 years on charges relating to the illegal possession and trafficking of firearms. The court revealed alarming details about the extent of illegal weapons, noting the father’s possession of various firearms, ammunition, and explosive materials at their home, which prosecutors linked directly to the shooting.
Upon hearing the verdict, the courtroom was filled with palpable grief as victims' relatives, some wearing shirts emblazoned with photos of their lost loved ones, expressed their sorrow and outrage. The young gunman, who described himself as feeling ‘victimized’ prior to the attack, admitted to the heinous nature of his choices, stating, "I committed hideous acts and I deserve the toughest punishment." His sincere acknowledgment of guilt seemed to provide little solace to those affected by the violence.
Public discussions have only intensified surrounding issues of youth behavior, mental health support, and the responsibilities of firearm ownership. Blazic's clearly documented history of aggression raised questions about the lack of interventions prior to the mass shooting. Reports indicated he had previously exhibited violent outbursts and troubling behavior patterns, yet there remained significant gaps within community support structures to address these warning signs.
This dual tragedy has put Serbia on particularly high alert, highlighting deep-rooted concerns around public safety and mental health crises among young people. Questions surrounding gun laws, mental health resources, and societal expectations of youth are more pressing now than ever.
The two mass shootings—the school slaughter followed closely by Blazic's rampage—now serve as grim landmarks within Serbia's socio-political narrative. An entire nation is grappling with feelings of disbelief and fear as they reckon with the realization of their societal vulnerabilities.
The verdict on December 12 is expected to be contested, with appeals anticipated by Uros Blazic's defense team. Meanwhile, parents of victims remain vigilant, seeking justice and promising never to forget those lost to unimaginable violence.
It remains uncertain whether this legal resolution will truly catalyze long-term changes within the legislative framework or alter the cultural attitudes toward violence and gun control. Everyone involved—citizens, leaders, and families—are painfully aware of the fragility of safety and the urgent need for reform.
