Istanbul, February 9 – A tragic incident unfolded in Istanbul’s Esenyurt district, where 40-year-old Ersin Alataş was fatally stabbed during an argument at a friend’s residence. The suspect, identified as Mehmet D., has been apprehended by law enforcement authorities.
Fatal Argument Escalates into Knife Fight
The incident occurred around 4:00 AM on Monday in the Akçaburgaz neighborhood. According to initial reports, Ersin Alataş was visiting friends and consuming alcohol when a dispute erupted with another individual present in the house. The argument quickly escalated into a violent knife fight, resulting in Alataş sustaining multiple stab wounds.
Following the stabbing, the assailant fled the scene. Alataş’s friend, Hakkı K., who was also present, alerted neighbors, who then contacted emergency services. Paramedics and police were dispatched to the location.
Victim Pronounced Dead at the Scene, Friend Detained
Upon arrival, medical teams confirmed that Ersin Alataş had succumbed to his injuries. His body was transported to the Forensic Medicine Institute for an autopsy. After the autopsy, Alataş’s family took his remains to his hometown of Zonguldak for burial.
Hakkı K., Alataş’s friend who witnessed the event and notified neighbors, was taken into custody for questioning. According to a neighbor, Mustafa Karabulut, who spoke to the police, his children heard the commotion and were asked by the homeowner to call for an ambulance and police. Karabulut stated, “They set up a table, drinking, and an argument broke out between them. They stabbed each other; one person died. After the stabbing, the other one fled. Both are tenants.”
Suspect Apprehended, Criminal Records Revealed
Police launched an immediate investigation to locate the fleeing suspect, Mehmet D., who was swiftly apprehended. During questioning at the police department, it was revealed that Mehmet D. has 16 prior criminal records. Alataş’s friend, Hakkı K., also has four criminal records, including one for ‘Murder’. Both suspects are currently undergoing further processing by the authorities.
Investigation Continues
The Istanbul Police Department is continuing its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the murder. Further details are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.