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CrimeTurkey

In Istanbul, poisoning suspected after visiting family dies

03:16

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Alex Forrest Whiting | Halida Abbaro
November 20, 2025

In Istanbul, a preliminary forensic report on the deaths of a Turkish-German family shows they were likely exposed to toxic chemicals at their hotel. The family of four from Hamburg fell ill on holiday and later died.

Four members of a Turkish-German family have died in Istanbul after falling ill at a hotel in the city's old town. Initial food poisoning suspicions shifted after two more guests were hospitalized.

Investigators now suspect pesticide fumes, possibly aluminum phosphide, leaked into their room. The hotel has since been sealed, and several people have been detained. Tourists are increasingly canceling their vacations, amid growing safety concerns.

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