Former Student Opens Fire at Turkish Vocational School, 16 Injured

A violent armed attack unfolded at the Ahmet Koyuncu Anatolian Vocational and Technical High School in the Siverek district of Şanlıurfa province, Turkey. According to preliminary information, the incident was perpetrated by a former student of the institution.

On the morning of April 14, a young man armed with a shotgun stormed onto the school grounds and opened fire indiscriminately in the courtyard. He then forced his way inside the building and continued his assault, targeting students and teachers. Reports indicate that some pupils attempted to flee by jumping out of windows. Security forces swiftly evacuated the school.

The governor of Şanlıurfa, Hasan Şıldak, confirmed that 16 people were injured in the shooting: 10 students, 4 teachers, one police officer, and a cafeteria worker. Officials noted there were no fatalities as a result of the attack.

Governor Şıldak provided details about the attacker, stating he had previously attended this school only through the 9th grade before being transferred to an "open high school" program. Authorities reported that after police launched an operation at the scene, the assailant took his own life using the same weapon.

Governor Şıldak announced that the incident is being investigated from all angles and expressed condolences to those affected. The Turkish Ministry of Interior has initiated a large-scale investigation and pledged to make its findings public. Authorities also stated that all circumstances surrounding the event would be examined, including security measures at educational institutions.