At least 10 people, including two children, were fatally shot by a gunman in southern Montenegro on Wednesday, according to police reports. The tragic incident unfolded partially inside a restaurant in the Cetinje region following a verbal altercation among patrons, authorities said.

Interior Minister Danilo Saranović revealed that the attacker, identified as Aleksandar Martinović, killed members of his own family, the restaurant owner, and two of the owner’s children. The shooting was reportedly triggered by disturbed interpersonal relations.

After the attack, Martinović fled the scene but ultimately took his own life when surrounded by police who demanded he disarm, according to officials. Four additional victims remain hospitalized in critical condition due to severe injuries sustained during the rampage.

Prime Minister Milojko Spajić described the event as a “terrible tragedy” and declared a three-day period of national mourning starting Thursday. The tragedy has shocked the small Balkan nation, where mass shootings are relatively rare.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, which has cast a shadow over the country. Further updates are expected as officials work to provide clarity on this devastating event.