One dead in armed assault on Istanbul’s Santa Maria Church
Two masked assailants opened fire during a Sunday service, resulting in a tragic death
The Sunday service at Santa Maria Church in Istanbul’s Sariyer district was interrupted by a deadly armed assault, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said.
The minister revealed that the attack resulted in one death, with the possibility of several injuries.
The assault occurred during the church’s Sunday mass, a time when the congregation was gathered for prayer.
Details are still emerging from the scene, but early reports indicate that two individuals with ski masks forcibly entered the church courtyard and opened fire on prayer attendees.
The attack led to chaos and fear among the congregation, with many attempting to protect themselves by dropping to the ground amid loud gunshots.
The assailants fled the scene on foot. A significant number of police units were dispatched to the scene immediately following the incident.
The Justice and Development Party (AK Party) spokesperson Ömer Çelik strongly condemned the attack, emphasizing the government’s commitment to security and public safety. “Our security forces are undertaking a thorough investigation. Those intent on disrupting our citizens’ peace and security will not succeed in their malicious objectives,” Çelik said.
Meanwhile, Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç announced the initiation of a comprehensive investigation. “I vehemently condemn the armed attack during the mass at Santa Maria Church,” he said, adding: “The Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office has launched an investigation into the attack, which claimed one life. A Deputy Chief Prosecutor and two Public Prosecutors have been appointed to ensure the incident is fully investigated. Efforts to identify and apprehend the suspects responsible for the attack are ongoing. The investigation is being conducted meticulously and on multiple fronts.”
Similarly, Istanbul Metropolitan Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu conveyed his condemnation on social media, saying: “We will not allow attacks on our city’s places of worship to disrupt our harmony and peace.”
He further extended his condolences to the family of the deceased, wishing quick recovery to those injured.
