Istanbul church attack: Gunmen kill one, injure worshippers during Sunday mass
A chilling attack on Sunday morning shattered the serenity of Santa Maria Church in Istanbul as two masked gunmen opened fire during Mass, killing one person and injuring several others, BBC has reported.
The shocking incident has sent tremors through the city and prompted swift condemnation from officials and religious leaders.
As investigations unfold, authorities remain tight-lipped on the motive behind the attack. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed the death of one individual, identified as CT, and assured swift action to apprehend the perpetrators who fled the scene.
Pope Francis offered his condolences and solidarity to the Santa Maria Draperis community, while Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu vowed to protect the city's places of worship. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan echoed the sentiment, expressing his deepest sympathies and assuring the pursuit of justice.
The attack has plunged the city into a state of uncertainty, raising questions about security and potential anti-Christian motives. As details emerge, the world closely watches the investigation and grapples with the ramifications of this senseless act of violence.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
