A man approximately 40 years old was shot and killed at the intersection of Calle Balmes and Calle Granada del Penedès in Barcelona at 9:50 a.m. on Wednesday. According to Mossos investigators, the single shot to the head is likely part of an ongoing conflict between Montenegrin criminal organizations, specifically the Kavac and Škaljari groups.
How did the shooting unfold in broad daylight?
The unidentified victim was walking toward the sea on Calle Balmes when an individual approached and fired a single, accurate shot to the head. The victim died instantly at the scene.
The gunman fled north, entering Calle Granada del Penedès and moving up Julián Romea. Investigators determined that the shooter stopped at a bus stop in Plaza Gal·la Placídia, where they abandoned a pistol and a mobile phone hidden under a bicycle helmet.
The attack occurred in a heavily policed area, as Barcelona had deployed 6,100 agents for a special security operation related to the Pope’s visit. The crime took place directly in front of a National Police station and the honorary consulate of Montenegro. CCTV footage from police facilities recorded the incident and showed the shooter’s face clearly.
Is this part of a larger criminal conflict?
Mossos investigators suspect the killing is a new chapter in a war between the Kavac and Škaljari criminal organizations. This would be the seventh shooting linked to these two groups if the connection is confirmed.
This incident marks the third fatal shooting in three weeks. On Sunday, a man identified by Serbian media as Mario Dolovic died in the Zona Franca after receiving eight shots. This follows a series of recent killings, including the April shooting of 44-year-old Montenegrin Krsto Vujic in Poblenou.
The investigation is being led by the judge from the Barcelona Court of Instruction number 31. This is the same court handling a similar case from one year ago on Calle Consell de Cent, where a Škaljari hitman killed a rival Kavac member in broad daylight.
“The evolution of the latest violent events related to organized crime organizations” is the subject of an urgent briefing to be held by Interior Minister Núria Parlon with the leadership of the Catalan police.
What actions are authorities taking next?
Interior Minister Núria Parlon is scheduled to preside over an urgent information session at the Department headquarters to address the rise in organized crime violence. Parlon has previously called for increasing penalties for marijuana trafficking to align with the rest of Europe.
Mossos officials have expressed concerns that the rise in marijuana production could lead Catalonia to become a “narcosociedad” where criminal groups settle disputes through violence.
In the immediate term, investigators are working to officially identify the victim through fingerprint analysis, a process that may take several days. The investigation into the shooter’s identity is also ongoing following the recovery of the mobile phone and weapon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the victim of the shooting?
The victim was a man approximately 40 years old, wearing a Barça shirt and athletic clothing, who has not yet been identified.
Where did the gunman leave the evidence?
The shooter left a pistol and a mobile phone hidden under a bicycle helmet at a bus stop in Plaza Gal·la Placídia.
What is the primary hypothesis regarding the motive?
Mossos suspect the murder is part of a conflict between the Kavac and Škaljari Montenegrin criminal organizations linked to drug trafficking.
How do these recent incidents affect public perception of safety in Barcelona?
