A 13-year-old was arrested in Serbia for killing eight children and a security guard. Police informed that the teenager was planning it for weeks and has a kill list according to BBC.
Teenagers using guns and killing fellow students and children in open fires has become rampant. Globally teenagers using guns has risen up to 41% till 2022. There have been incidents in the United States where teens have been responsible for mass shootings and open fire in public places, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries. These tragedies have sparked widespread concern and debate about issues such as gun control, mental health, and school safety. It’s important to recognize the seriousness of these incidents and work towards finding solutions to prevent them from happening in the future. This may involve a multi-faceted approach that addresses issues related to mental health, gun control, social isolation, and other factors that may contribute to such acts of violence.
There are many factors that can contribute to incidents of teen violence, including open fire and mass shootings. Teens who struggle with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder may be at higher risk for engaging in violent behaviour. Teens who feel disconnected from others or who have experienced bullying, harassment, or other forms of social rejection may be more likely to engage in violent behaviour as a way of expressing their anger or frustration.
Easy access to firearms, particularly high-powered weapons, can make it easier for teens to carry out acts of violence. If a family has licensed arms and has a history of violence teens are more prone to experiment. Teens who are exposed to violence, either through personal experience or through media and entertainment, may be more likely to view violent behaviour as acceptable or even desirable.
Teens who lack access to resources such as mental health services, social support, or educational opportunities may be more vulnerable to engaging in violent behaviour. Addressing these and other contributing factors will require a multifaceted approach that involves cooperation and coordination among educators, mental health professionals, law enforcement officials, policymakers, and the broader community.
In the US itself there are some high profile shooting and open fire incidents involving teens.
Parkland school shooting: In 2018, a 19-year-old former student at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida opened fire and killed 17 people.
Santa Fe High School shooting: In 2018, a 17-year-old student at Santa Fe High School in Santa Fe, Texas opened fire and killed 10 people.
Marysville Pilchuck High School shooting: In 2014, a 15-year-old student at Marysville Pilchuck High School in Marysville, Washington opened fire and killed four people before taking his own life.
Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting: In 2012, a 20-year-old shooter killed 20 children and six adults at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut.
These incidents are just a few examples of the devastating impact of teen violence in the United States.
The one that occurred in Serbia on the 3rd May, 2023 is still under investigation and most likely the suspect had access to guns and need severe psychiatric help.
