[REVISION HISTORY]

Investigation into death of Dr. Özlem Gültekin

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What changed

2026-08-24 09:31 UTC → 2026-08-25 12:13 UTC · added ~~removed~~

An investigation was launched in İzmir following the death of 48-year-old obstetrician Dr. Özlem Gültekin at her clinic. Although initial reports suggested a heart attack, the İzmir Chief Public Prosecutor's Office classified the death as suspicious, prompting an autopsy. The case involved prior legal disputes between Gültekin and her husband, news anchor Erhan Çelik, during their divorce proceedings. In December 2025, Gültekin had alleged physical and psychological violence against Çelik, leading to prosecutor requests for his imprisonment on charges of threat and injury, which he denied. Lawyers for both parties later issued a joint statement noting the couple was in the final stages of an uncontested divorce and criticized media sensationalism. Subsequent forensic analysis by the Forensic Medicine Institute examined blood, hair, urine, and nail samples. The report found no evidence of illegal drugs or stimulants, identifying only the medical active ingredients citalopram and escitalopram used for treatment. These findings contradicted complaints filed by Çelik alleging the illegal use of anesthetic and prescription drugs. Consequently, the İzmir Chief Public Prosecutor's Office issued a decision of non-prosecution on July 6, 2026, regarding the drug use allegations. Additionally, allegations surfaced involving a domestic worker, a Turkmenistan national identified as Y. S., who was accused of secretly recording Gültekin using substances and attempting to blackmail Çelik for $10,000. While the suspect was detained and later released under a travel ban, the forensic results contradicted the claims of drug addiction. ~~Consequently, the İzmir Chief Public Prosecutor's Office issued a decision of non-prosecution on July 6, 2026, regarding the drug use allegations.~~

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