Man Murdered in Istanbul Over Alleged Affair; Father-in-Law Warned Daughter-in-Law
Istanbul, March 31, 2026 – In a shocking incident in Istanbul’s Sultangazi district, Erdal Kökyayan, 41, was found shot dead in a car. The primary suspect, Ihsan C., also 41, has been apprehended and is accused of the murder, allegedly driven by a baseless claim of an affair between Kökyayan and his wife. Disturbingly, it has emerged that Ihsan C.’s father had warned his daughter-in-law about her husband’s volatile state and potential danger just before the crime.
Details of the Incident
The event unfolded around 3:00 PM on March 30, 2026, in the Küçük Sanayi Sitesi in Esentepe Mahallesi. Police and medical teams were dispatched to the scene following reports of a person shot in a vehicle. Authorities identified the victim as Erdal Kökyayan. Despite immediate medical intervention and his transfer to Haseki Training and Research Hospital, Kökyayan succumbed to his injuries.
Investigation and Arrest
The Homicide Bureau launched an investigation, quickly obtaining security camera footage that showed the suspect fleeing the scene after the shooting. The footage also captured the suspect’s car rolling backward and crashing after he exited. Tracing the movements, police identified the fleeing individual as Ihsan C. An operation in Eyüpsultan’s Karadolap Mahallesi led to Ihsan C.’s arrest. His relative, Hasan C., who was also in the car during the incident, was subsequently apprehended, bringing the total number of arrests to two.
Suspect Confesses, No Connection Found
During interrogation at the Directorate of Public Order, Ihsan C. reportedly confessed to the murder. He stated, “I told him I wanted to meet him to discuss something. He picked me up in his car. On the way, I called my relative, Hasan C., to join me. I asked him to drive towards my wife’s workplace. There, I suddenly pulled out my gun and fired.”
However, police investigations revealed a critical detail: there was no evidence to suggest any prior acquaintance or relationship between the victim, Erdal Kökyayan, and Ihsan C.’s wife, H.C. This finding contradicts Ihsan C.’s alleged motive for the murder.
Father-in-Law’s Ominous Warning
Further revelations from the investigation indicate that Ihsan C.’s father had called H.C. on the day of the incident, delivering a chilling warning: “He’s lost his mind again. He took a gun and left. He could kill both you and me, be careful.” This premonition highlights Ihsan C.’s history of erratic behavior. Ihsan C. has a record of seven previous offenses, including drug possession and use. Both Ihsan C. and Hasan C. have been referred to the courthouse following their arrests.
Broader Implications
This tragic event underscores the severe consequences of unfounded accusations and the dangers posed by individuals with a history of violent or unstable behavior. The swift action of the Istanbul police in apprehending the suspects is a testament to their commitment to public safety. The community now awaits further legal proceedings to bring justice for Erdal Kökyayan.
The incident has also sparked discussions on the importance of addressing domestic disputes and mental health issues to prevent such tragedies in the future. Local authorities are urged to consider programs that provide support and intervention for individuals exhibiting signs of aggression or instability.
The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as the legal process continues. The focus remains on ensuring a thorough and just resolution to this disturbing case.
Source: Hürriyet Gazetecilik ve Matbaacılık A.Ş.
