Turkish Imam Passes Away During Prayers at Airport

Nov 6, 2026

69 min

Nov 6, 2026 18:30

Turkish pilgrim dies after collapsing during prayers before Umrah flight

## Tragic Incident at Konya Airport

A 68-year-old Turkish imam, Abdullah Özkan, tragically passed away while leading prayers at Konya Airport. Özkan, who was preparing to travel to Mecca for Umrah, collapsed during the prayer session.

## Details of the Event

Özkan, dressed in the traditional ihram attire, was with a group of approximately 180 pilgrims. The group had gathered at the airport early in the morning, having completed their travel formalities. Özkan led a farewell prayer and was reciting the Talbiyah prayer when he suddenly lost his voice and collapsed.

## Immediate Response

Medical personnel at the airport quickly responded, providing first aid and performing CPR. Despite their efforts, Özkan was pronounced dead after being transferred to Selçuk University Medical Faculty Hospital. Reports suggest he suffered a heart attack, although the exact cause of death remains unconfirmed.

## Community Reaction

Footage captured by a fellow pilgrim showed the moment Özkan collapsed, prompting immediate assistance from those nearby. İsmail Gümüş, a colleague of Özkan, noted that he had shown no signs of illness prior to the incident. Enes Aktaş, the mufti of Beyşehir, praised Özkan's contributions to the community.

## Final Farewell

Özkan was laid to rest at Beyşehir Cemetery following funeral prayers at Çarşı Mosque. The service was attended by family, fellow religious officials, and local residents, who gathered to pay their respects to the respected religious figure.

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