14-year-old stabs police officer to death in Bosnia

Friday, October 25, 2024 - A shocking incident unfolded late Thursday, October 2, in the town of Bosanska Krupa, Bosnia, where a 14-year-old broke into a police station, fatally stabbing one officer and severely injuring another, according to local authorities.

The small town, located approximately 300 kilometers northwest of Sarajevo, is reeling from the unexpected violence.

Ramo Isak, the interior minister for the Bosniak-Croat federation, confirmed the attack and the officer’s death, while police spokesperson Adnan Beganovic reported that the wounded officer is in the hospital with life-threatening injuries. The young assailant, born in 2009, was quickly apprehended, and an investigation into the attack’s motives is underway.

Regional police chief Adnan Habibija expressed dismay at the youth's involvement, calling it “an alarm bell for our society.” Mayor Armin Halitovic echoed the town's shock, saying, “We are a peaceful and tolerant town.” In light of the tragedy, police have increased security measures.

This incident follows a similar attack last year when a 13-year-old student wounded a teacher with a firearm, underscoring growing concerns over youth violence in Bosnia.