Two masked assailants attacked a Roman Catholic church in Istanbul during a Sunday Mass, killing one person, Turkish officials said. The armed assailants targeted the Santa Maria Church in the Sariyer district. The attack occurred at 11:40 a.m. local time. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya condemned the attack and stated that authorities were working on capturing the assailants. Turkish authorities have instituted a media ban on coverage of the attack.
A video circulating on social media captured the moment of the attack, showing two masked men entering the church and opening fire. The service-goers promptly dropped to the floor as the assailants fled the scene. While Turkish authorities have not formally identified the victim, local media reported that the person killed had the initials C.T. and was 52 years old.
Sukru Genc, mayor of the Sariyer district, revealed that the gunmen fled when their weapon malfunctioned after firing two rounds. Genc added that among the attendees was Polish Consul General Witold Lesniak and his family, who fortunately escaped unharmed.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reached out to offer his condolences to both Lesniak and Reverend Anton Bulai, the priest of Santa Maria Church. Similarly, Pope Francis expressed his sympathy during his Sunday address in Vatican City.
The church, which is managed by an Italian order of Franciscan friars, received support from Italian officials. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani tweeted his condolences and firm condemnation of the attack, expressing confidence in the Turkish authorities’ ability to apprehend those responsible.
Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu also conveyed his condolences and provided support to religious minorities in the city, emphasizing that everyone in Istanbul and Turkey is an actual citizen, regardless of religious affiliation.
As the investigation continues, Turkish authorities are working diligently to find and bring the attackers to justice. The attack on Santa Maria Church has highlighted the importance of safeguarding religious freedoms and protecting all citizens, regardless of their beliefs.
