A judge in Albania was shot dead inside a courtroom during a trial at the Court of Appeal in the capital, Tirana. The presiding judge, Astrit Kalaja, sustained fatal injuries and died while being transported to hospital.
Two others involved in the hearing, a father and son who were parties to a property dispute, were also wounded in the attack. Their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.
Authorities say the shooter is a 30‑year-old man identified by the initials “E. Sh.” and later named in media reports as Elvis Shkëmbi. He was arrested at the scene.
Also detained are the suspect’s uncle and a court security guard, who reportedly allowed the gunman entry despite triggering a metal detector.
According to law enforcement sources, the gunman drew the pistol from his belt immediately after the verdict was announced and opened fire on Judge Kalaja.
Public and government reaction has been swift. Prime Minister Edi Rama condemned the killing as a “tragic event” and called for stronger penalties for gun crimes.
President Bajram Begaj likewise denounced the attack as an attack on the justice system itself.
This shocking incident has sparked renewed concern about courtroom security and judicial safety in Albania.
