In a distressing incident on Tuesday, a former pupil opened fire inside his old high school in Turkey’s southeastern Sanliurfa province, injuring 16 individuals, including students, before taking his own life during a police confrontation, authorities confirmed.

Hasan Sildak, the local governor, reported that special security units were swiftly dispatched to the school located in the Siverek district. Students were promptly evacuated to ensure their safety amid the chaos.

Broadcast footage captured scenes of ambulances stationed outside the school as panicked students fled the premises.

Details of the Incident and Perpetrator

The attacker, identified as a former student born in 2007, reportedly used a pump-action shotgun to indiscriminately fire in the school corridors, according to Governor Sildak.

“When police cornered him, he ended his own life,” Sildak stated during a press briefing.

Authorities have secured the area and initiated a comprehensive investigation into the tragic event. “Although we implement rigorous safety protocols in our schools, isolated incidents like this can still occur. We are committed to thoroughly examining all aspects of this case,” the governor added.

Preliminary reports from the Interior Ministry, shared via X (formerly Twitter), indicate that among the 16 injured were 10 students, four teachers, one police officer, and a cafeteria worker.

“The assailant used the same shotgun to commit suicide after the attack,” the ministry confirmed.

Context of School Violence and Safety Measures in Turkey

School shootings remain an uncommon occurrence in Turkey. However, a similar violent episode took place in May 2024, when a former student fatally shot a private high school principal in Istanbul, five months after being expelled.

The suspect, reportedly of Iraqi descent, fled the scene but was apprehended shortly afterward. This incident sparked widespread public outcry and led to large-scale protests by thousands of educators in Istanbul, demanding enhanced security protocols in educational institutions.

Turkey enforces stringent firearm regulations, including mandatory licensing, registration, and thorough mental health and criminal background screenings. Illegal possession of weapons carries severe legal consequences, reflecting the country’s commitment to curbing gun violence.

Support Independent Reporting

To stay informed with reliable news coverage, add The Citizen as a preferred source on Google and follow us on Google News for the latest updates and trusted journalism.