Panic-Induced Tragedy: 14-Year-Old Dies After Türkiye’s 5.8 Earthquake in Marmaris

A 5.8 magnitude earthquake jolted the Marmaris region in southwestern Türkiye early Tuesday, triggering widespread panic and leaving one teenage girl dead and nearly 70 others injured, according to Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya.

The tremor struck at 10.43 kilometers from Marmaris and at a depth of 67.91 kilometers, shaking the Muğla province without causing visible structural destruction. The Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) and local agencies swiftly launched assessments.

14-Year-Old Dies After Panic Attack

In a heartbreaking outcome, 14-year-old Afranur Günlü succumbed to a panic-induced medical emergency. She was rushed to a hospital in Fethiye but could not be saved despite medical interventions.

“She passed away despite all efforts,” Minister Yerlikaya said on X, extending condolences to her family.

Most Injuries Resulted From Panic

While the tremor did not collapse buildings, the fear it caused led many to jump from balconies and windows. Yerlikaya confirmed that:

• 46 people are being treated in emergency departments

• 14 received first aid on-site

• 8 were discharged after outpatient treatment

The majority of injuries were not due to falling debris but rather panic responses, officials noted.

No Major Structural Damage Reported

Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change Minister Murat Kurum emphasized that field checks in populated areas revealed no major destruction.

“Our teams are still conducting detailed inspections, but no structural damage has been identified so far,” he said.

Authorities assured the public that monitoring and evaluations will continue, with AFAD coordinating emergency responses and preparedness for potential aftershocks.