Tragic Courtroom Shooting Claims Life of Albanian Judge

Sat Oct 11 2025 04:06:38 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Judge Astrit Kalaja was fatally shot during a trial at Tirana's Court of Appeal, marking a solemn moment in Albania's judicial history. This incident raises grave concerns about courtroom safety and security.

In a shocking act of violence, Judge Astrit Kalaja was shot and killed during a property dispute trial in Tirana. The shooting has sparked calls for enhanced security measures for judges, highlighting deep-seated issues in Albania's legal system. Prime Minister Edi Rama has emphasized the need for severe repercussions for such violence, while opposition leader Sali Berisha called this a moment for societal reflection. The suspect has been apprehended, along with two others linked to the incident.

A judge in Albania has been shot dead after a man opened fire during a trial at the Court of Appeal in the capital Tirana.

Judge Astrit Kalaja died en route to hospital, officials said, while two others involved in the hearing over a property dispute - a father and son - were shot but sustained injuries that were not life-threatening.

Police have arrested a 30-year-old male suspect, identified by the initials E Sh, named as Elvis Shkëmbi by Albanian media.

Prime Minister Edi Rama offered condolences to Judge Kalaja's family, stating: The criminal aggression against the judge undoubtedly requires the most extreme legal response toward the aggressor.

He called for stricter security within the country's courts and harsher penalties for illegal weapons possession.

Sali Berisha, leader of the opposition Democratic Party, highlighted that this is the first time in 35 years a judge has been killed while doing his duty, urging that it prompts deep reflection within Albanian society.

Reports indicate that the suspect shot at Judge Kalaja because he anticipated losing the case.

Additionally, Mr. Shkëmbi's uncle and the court's security guard have also reportedly been arrested in connection to the shooting.

Albania's general prosecutor Olsian Çela has noted that judges' security must be enhanced in all aspects. Beyond the heartbreaking loss of one life and the injury of two others, this event strikes at the very foundation of justice and the functioning of the legal system, he emphasized.

While courtroom firearm attacks are rare, incidents have occurred, including a notorious case a decade ago in Milan, Italy.

Judge Kalaja was a lawyer for more than 30 years, appointed to Tirana's Court of Appeal in 2019.

Albania has reported the highest number of firearm incidents during public disputes among Balkan nations in the first half of this year, according to a UN-backed monitor, with significant public concern regarding violence.