A 66-year-old businessman was killed in a late-night shooting in Saranda, southern Albania, after being struck by a bullet to the head in what authorities are investigating as a suspected targeted attack.
According to preliminary reports from Albanian media, the incident took place on Thursday evening, May 7, in the Gjashtë area of Saranda, where local businessman Rexhep Ismaili, identified as the owner of a fuel station, was found fatally wounded. Initial information indicates the victim suffered a gunshot wound to the head, with emergency responders unable to save him. Multiple police units were immediately deployed to secure the scene and launch an investigation.
Local journalists on the ground reported that investigators are collecting forensic evidence and interviewing potential witnesses as authorities work to reconstruct the circumstances of the killing. No arrests have been officially announced as of publication, and police have not yet released details regarding possible suspects or motives.
The killing has raised concerns in Saranda, one of Albania’s most visited coastal cities, particularly as the tourist season approaches. Violent attacks involving firearms remain high-profile cases in the country and often trigger extensive criminal investigations by regional law enforcement agencies.
Authorities are expected to issue further updates as the investigation develops and as forensic analysis from the crime scene is completed.