Teenager Yusuf Demirci killed in Istanbul, three minors face up to 24 years in prison

On 6 July 2025, 16‑year‑old Yusuf Demirci was attacked with a rotating knife in the Yeni Mahalle neighbourhood of Küçükçekmece, Istanbul, after being summoned by a friend. He sustained multiple stab wounds and died in hospital two days later.

Prosecutors have identified three under‑18 suspects – A. P. B., U. G. and Y. T. – and allege they planned and carried out the killing. The indictment seeks sentences of 18 to 24 years for each defendant on charges of “intentional homicide of a child” and requests that their detention continue. A court hearing on 18 September will address the continuation of their pre‑trial custody.