A tragic shooting incident in Kirikkale's Baliseyh district has claimed the lives of district mayor Hilmi Sen and his driver, Mikail Celikkol.

The incident also left three others injured, who are currently receiving treatment and are reported to be in stable condition.

The shooting occurred in a residential area when the suspect, identified as E.S., reportedly opened fire on Mayor Sen, his driver, and others nearby. Emergency responders transported all five victims to the Kirikkale High Specialization Hospital, where, despite intensive medical efforts, both Sen and Celikkol succumbed to their injuries.

According to Kirikkale Governor Mehmet Makas, E.S., who is believed to be related to the mayor, was swiftly apprehended by local police with the weapon used in the attack. Governor Makas confirmed that a judicial investigation, led by the prosecutor’s office, is now underway.

Speaking to reporters at the hospital, Governor Makas stated: “This morning at around 10:00 a.m., Baliseyh Mayor Hilmi Sen and his team were intercepted by the suspect en route to a work site. What started as an argument escalated into a shooting incident. Five people were hospitalized, including the mayor and his driver, who unfortunately could not be saved despite all efforts.”

Governor Makas called for calm within the community and assured the public that the legal process is progressing under the prosecutor’s supervision. The suspect remains in custody as authorities continue their investigation into the tragic incident. (ILKHA)