An appeals court judge was fatally shot inside a courtroom in Albania’s capital on Monday after a man involved in a trial opened fire, police and eyewitnesses said. The judge, identified by authorities as Astrit Kalaja, died while being transported to hospital.
According to police statements and multiple news agencies, the gunman — a 30-year-old man identified by his initials E. Sh. — opened fire during a hearing at the Tirana Court of Appeal in a case over a property dispute. Two other people present in the courtroom, reported to be a father and his son who were parties to the case, were wounded and taken to hospital in stable condition. The suspect was arrested at the scene; police said additional arrests were made as the investigation continued.
The attack prompted immediate outrage from political leaders. Prime Minister Edi Rama and President Bajram Begaj condemned the killing, calling it an attack on the justice system and urging tougher measures on gun crime and improved security in courts. Officials said they would review courtroom protections for judges and legal staff as the probe proceeds.
Local and regional outlets noted the incident has intensified debates about firearms and public safety in Albania. Reporting cited recent statistics on rising firearm-related incidents and described the shooting as a rare and deeply shocking escalation inside a courtroom. Investigators have said the motive appears linked to the defendant’s reaction to the proceedings, but formal charges and a full account of events remain subject to the ongoing police inquiry.
Police and judicial authorities have launched a criminal investigation; prosecutors and the interior ministry said they will examine court security procedures and how the suspect obtained the weapon. Officials have not yet released a full timeline of events or confirmed whether any court personnel will face disciplinary action for security
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