Elazığ murder investigation launched after house fire

Authorities in Elazığ, Turkey, have launched a murder investigation following a house fire in the Karakoçan district that claimed the lives of Ağa Üykü and his wife, Hayriye Üykü. While the incident initially appeared to be an accidental fire on the night of September 8, autopsies conducted at Fırat University Hospital revealed gunshot wounds on both victims.

Investigators believe the couple may have been shot before the residence was set ablaze to destroy evidence. The motive is suspected to be robbery, as several pieces of gold jewelry belonging to Hayriye Üykü were reported missing from the scene.

Law enforcement officials are considering the possibility that the perpetrators were known to the couple, noting that the house door was opened during the night in a remote settlement. Four suspects have been detained as part of the ongoing investigation led by the Karakoçan Chief Public Prosecutor's Office.