A court hearing in Albania’s capital, Tirana, turned bloody on Monday after a man on trial opened fire inside the courtroom, killing the presiding judge and injuring two others.
According to police reports, Appeals Court Judge Astrit Kalaja was overseeing the property dispute case when the defendant suddenly pulled out a gun and shot him.
The attacker, who was immediately overpowered and arrested by security officers, also shot a father and son who were part of the opposing party in the trial.
Both victims were rushed to the hospital and are said to be in stable condition.
Police confirmed that Judge Kalaja was rushed to the hospital but died on the way due to the severity of his injuries.
Local media reports indicate that the gunman opened fire after realizing he was likely to lose the case.
Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama described the shooting as a “tragic event,” calling for harsher punishments for gun-related crimes and an “extreme legal response against the aggressor.”
The country’s President, Bajram Begaj, also condemned the killing, describing it as “a terrible attack against the entire justice system.”
Opposition leader Sali Berisha said it was the first time in 35 years that a judge had been killed while performing his duty, urging a “deep reflection” across Albanian society.
Data from SEESAC shows that Albania recorded 213 firearm incidents between January and June 2025, underscoring the growing concern over illegal gun possession, a crime punishable by up to three years in prison.
Police have sealed off the area around the Court of Appeals as investigations continue.
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