Istanbul, Turkey – An unusual and tragic accident unfolded in a tunnel in Istanbul’s Şile district on Sunday evening, when a herd of stray cows entered the roadway and were struck by two oncoming vehicles. The collision resulted in the death of 10 cows and left one car passenger injured.
Details of the Incident in Şile Tunnel
The incident took place on the Şile-Ağva road, inside a tunnel, at approximately 22:19 on June 21, 2026. According to reports, a group of 10 stray cows wandered into the tunnel, directly into the path of two moving automobiles. Both vehicles collided with the animals, leading to significant damage to the cars and the immediate death of all 10 cows.
Emergency Response and Casualties
Upon receiving the report, emergency services, including gendarmerie, fire brigades, and medical teams, were dispatched to the scene. Paramedics attended to the injured passenger, who was subsequently transported to a hospital for further treatment. The extent of their injuries was not immediately disclosed.
The accident caused considerable traffic congestion within the tunnel. Authorities worked to clear the area, removing the deceased animals and damaged vehicles. Traffic flow returned to normal after the completion of these operations.
Previous Incidents and Road Safety Concerns
This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding road safety in areas where livestock may roam freely near major roadways. While specific details about the ownership of the cows or how they entered the tunnel were not provided, such occurrences pose a significant risk to motorists and animals alike.
Local authorities have been urged to address the issue of stray animals on roads, particularly in critical infrastructure areas like tunnels, to prevent future accidents and ensure the safety of commuters. The investigation into the exact circumstances of the incident is ongoing.
This event occurred amidst other local news, including drug busts and preparations for the YKS exams, but the unusual nature of the tunnel accident has drawn considerable attention to road safety measures in the region.
