Italian chef’s son Mattia Ahmet Minguzzi dies after stabbing attack in Istanbul

Mattia Ahmet Minguzzi, the 15-year-old son of renowned Italian chef Andrea Minguzzi, has died from injuries sustained in a stabbing attack at a flea market in Istanbul’s Kadikoy district in January.

The attack occurred on Jan. 24, 2025, at around 8:30 a.m. in the Historic Tuesday Market (Sali Pazari) in Hasanpasa. Mattia, a high school student, had gone to the market with friends to shop for skateboard accessories and clothing.

Verbal dispute turns violent

While browsing, an individual approached Mattia and said, “You are very handsome.” Mattia responded, “Excuse me, brother,” which led to a brief verbal exchange.

Later, the two parties crossed paths again, and the confrontation escalated into a physical altercation.

Although local shopkeepers intervened to separate them, one of the assailants, identified as 15-year-old B.B., ran back toward Mattia and stabbed him. As Mattia collapsed, another attacker, 16-year-old U.B., reportedly kicked him while he lay bleeding on the ground. The attackers then fled the scene, with the assault captured on security cameras.

Authorities later apprehended both suspects, who were taken into custody and formally charged.

Mattia Ahmet Minguzzi, the son of Andrea Minguzzi, executive chef at a prestigious Italian restaurant in Istanbul, and cellist Yasemin Akincilar, had been in intensive care since the attack.

Despite extensive medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries, leaving his family and the local community in deep sorrow.