A gunman opened fire inside a vocational high school in southeastern Turkey on Tuesday, wounding at least 16 people before taking his own life, authorities said.
The attacker, identified as an 18-year-old former student, entered the school in Siverek, located in Sanliurfa province, carrying a shotgun and began firing indiscriminately, regional governor Hasan Sildak said.
Among those injured were 10 students, four teachers, a cafeteria worker and a police officer. Most victims were treated locally, while several with more serious injuries were transferred to a hospital in the provincial capital for advanced care.
Officials said the suspect ended his life after police surrounded him inside the building. Authorities described the incident as isolated and confirmed the attacker had no prior criminal record.
Initial findings did not establish a motive. However, local media outlets, including Anadolu Agency, indicated the suspect may have posted threats on social media before carrying out the attack.
Students described scenes of panic as the shooting unfolded. One witness said the attacker entered a classroom without warning and opened fire, prompting students to drop to the ground before some fled by jumping from windows.
Emergency units quickly evacuated the campus as police secured the area. Video from the scene showed students rushing out of the building and onto nearby streets.
Authorities said a full investigation is underway to determine how the attack was planned and whether any warning signs were missed.
School shootings remain uncommon in Turkey, making the incident particularly alarming for a country where such attacks are not a frequent part of public safety concerns. The absence of a permanent police presence at the school, while typical in many parts of the country, may prompt renewed debate about campus security measures.
The reported use of social media to signal intent reflects a growing global pattern in acts of violence, where digital platforms can serve as early warning signs that are often overlooked or not acted upon in time. This raises broader questions about monitoring, reporting, and intervention systems.
The attack also highlights the vulnerability of educational institutions to sudden acts of violence, even in regions not typically associated with such incidents. As investigations continue, officials may face pressure to reassess safety protocols, particularly in vocational and public schools that operate with limited security infrastructure.
In the wider context, the incident underscores how isolated acts can still have significant national impact, shaping public perception and policy discussions around youth behavior, mental health, and access to weapons.
The Associated Press
