Neighbor Faces Triple Life Sentence in Mardin Family Murder Case

Mardin, Turkey – An indictment has been accepted by the Mardin 5th High Criminal Court, seeking three aggravated life sentences for a neighbor accused of the premeditated murder of a family in Kızıltepe. The tragic incident, which occurred on November 25, 2025, saw Berna Kaya (33), Mehmet Kaya (37), and their 5-year-old child, Samyeli Kaya, fatally shot in their home.

The accused, 28-year-old M.C., a neighbor of the victims, faces charges of 'premeditated murder' for each of the three deaths. Prosecutors are also seeking an additional sentence of up to 15 years for 'possessing an unlicensed firearm' and 'armed robbery at a residence during nighttime hours.'

The horrific crime came to light after concerned neighbors reported not being able to reach the Kaya family. Investigations at the scene revealed no signs of forced entry or struggle, suggesting the victims may have known their assailant.

During the investigation, M.C. was apprehended with a handgun believed to be the murder weapon and subsequently arrested. Two other individuals, V.E. (36) and B.K. (27), were also arrested and charged with 'destroying, concealing, or altering evidence of a crime' for their alleged roles in assisting M.C. Their charges carry a potential sentence of up to five years in prison. A separate file has been opened for B.A., who is suspected of selling the firearm.

Seher Acay, the attorney representing the Kaya family, stated that the evidence strongly points to M.C. as the perpetrator. The first hearing in the case is scheduled for June 29.