A fatal shooting took place this afternoon inside the Court of Appeal of General Jurisdiction in Tirana, claiming the life of Judge Astrit Kalaja. Two other people involved in the same case were also injured.

Police said the incident happened around 15:40, during an ongoing hearing. The suspect, identified as E.Sh., 30, reportedly pulled out a firearm and shot at Judge Kalaja and at R.K., 65, and E.K., 45, a father and son who were part of the opposing side in the trial.

Judge Kalaja died at the scene, while the two injured men were transported to hospital and are in stable condition. Police units arrived immediately, arrested the suspected gunman, and seized the weapon used in the attack.

An investigative team has been set up and is working to determine the motives and full circumstances of the incident. The shocking event has raised concern about security measures in Albanian courtrooms.

/a.c/