Contractor and Building Owner Detained After Fatal Balıkesir Earthquake Collapse

Following the 6.1-magnitude earthquake in Balıkesir, which left one person dead and 29 injured, Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç announced that the contractor and owner of the collapsed three-story building in Sındırgı have been taken into custody.

The Balıkesir quake struck on the evening of August 10, triggering multiple aftershocks. An 81-year-old resident was found dead under the rubble, while dozens were injured.

Tunç stated on social media that the Sındırgı Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office launched an investigation immediately after the collapse. An expert panel consisting of a civil engineer, architect, and geophysical engineer was assigned to inspect the building and collect core samples.

Based on the preliminary report from the expert team, authorities determined that the collapse was linked to possible construction faults. The contractor and building owner were detained on charges of “causing death and injury by negligence” under the Turkish Penal Code.

“The investigation is being conducted thoroughly and comprehensively,” Tunç said, extending condolences to the victim’s family and wishing a swift recovery to the injured.