Six people were killed and eight others injured in a coordinated shooting spree across multiple locations in Mersin, southern Turkey, on Monday, May 18, 2026. The 37-year-old suspect allegedly began the rampage by fatally shooting his former wife before launching attacks in several areas—including a restaurant in Tarsus, a roadside encounter with a young shepherd in the Kaburgakent neighborhood, and a gas station in Genikioy.
Timeline of Violence
According to Turkish authorities and local media reports, after killing his ex-wife, the suspect fled to Tarsus—a district within Mersin Province—and opened fire outside a restaurant. Security camera footage captured the moment he arrived by car and shot two people waiting near the entrance before fleeing. Inside, he wounded the restaurant owner—who was rushed to hospital—and killed an employee on the spot.
The suspect then drove to Kaburgakent, where he shot and killed a young shepherd. Later, at a gas station in Genikioy, he fired at a truck driver and a station attendant—both of whom died from their injuries.
Victim Identified
Among the six fatalities was 32-year-old Arzu, the suspect’s current wife. Her death—confirmed by Turkish media—has drawn national attention, underscoring the personal motive reportedly underlying the broader violence.
Footage and Response
Security camera footage from the restaurant attack has circulated widely on social media, offering a chilling second-by-second account of the assault. Accounts from survivors, including restaurant worker Mehmet Han Topal, describe the suddenness and horror of the incident: “He came in, I said ‘welcome,’ but he didn’t respond. We thought he’d take out his phone—but suddenly he pulled out a gun and put it in his mouth. I dropped to the floor.”
In response, Turkish police deployed large-scale operations—including helicopters—to track down the suspect. His getaway vehicle was later found abandoned in the Karakutk neighborhood. Early reports suggest he may have taken refuge in nearby forested areas, and the manhunt remains ongoing.