In a shocking incident that has deeply unsettled the nation, a gunman opened fire at an elderly care home in the central Croatian town of Daruvar, leaving at least six people dead and six others injured. The assailant, believed to be a veteran of Croatia's war of independence in the 1990s, used an unregistered gun for the attack.

According to Croatia's police chief, Nikola Milina, five individuals tragically lost their lives immediately, while one more person succumbed to injuries at a nearby hospital. Among the victims were five residents of the care home and one employee, as reported by Milina.

Authorities were alerted to the situation on Monday morning, after receiving reports of a man armed with firearms causing harm within the nursing home premises. Although the suspect initially fled the scene, law enforcement swiftly apprehended him in a café located in downtown Daruvar. The Bjelovar-Bilogora County Police confirmed the detention of the individual in a statement.

The injured victims, described as having severe injuries, were rushed to the nearby Pakrac hospital. The hospital's surgeon, Branko Sudar, revealed that four individuals suffered from head trauma and gunshot wounds to the chest.

The private elderly care home housed approximately 20 individuals, according to Daruvar Mayor Damir Lneniček. This tragic incident has sent shockwaves throughout the country, prompting condemnation from Croatia's President, Zoran Milanović, who labelled it as a "savage, unprecedented crime." Milanović took to Facebook, calling for stricter gun control measures and greater efforts to prevent violence in society.

Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, deeply affected by the attack, expressed his disbelief, stating, "We had some difficult situations, but I don't remember this many people being killed (in one attack)." State prosecutor general Ivan Turudić, who arrived in Daruvar following the incident, emphasized the need to bring the perpetrator to justice.

As the investigation into the motive behind the attack continues, authorities are examining the assailant's connection to Croatia's war of independence. The use of an unregistered firearm has raised concerns about the need for stronger gun laws in the country.

Daruvar, known for being a popular spa town and municipality in the Slavonia region, with a population of around 8,500 people, is now grappling with the aftermath of this tragic event. The residents, along with the entire nation of Croatia, mourn the loss of innocent lives and hope for a swift resolution to the investigation.