Argentina records rare school shooting, first in 22 years

On March 30, 2024, a 15‑year‑old student entered the Mariano Moreno school in San Cristóbal, Santa Fe, Argentina, firing four to five shotgun blasts. One 13‑year‑old student was killed and two people were wounded before the attacker was subdued and detained.

Provincial Justice and Security Minister Pablo Cococcioni said the shooter is a “minor not punishable under current legislation,” meaning he cannot face criminal penalties. National Security Minister Alejandra Monteoliva called the event “unprecedented” and blamed online communities that glorify mass violence.

A second incident occurred on June 30 in Neuquén province, where a student brought a firearm to school and injured a 13‑year‑old peer. Experts note that such extreme school‑shootings are extremely rare in Latin America; UNESCO reports that one‑third of students worldwide experience physical aggression, but school shootings remain uncommon in the region.