Turkish Imam Passes Away During Prayers at Airport

Nov 6, 2026

68 min

Nov 6, 2026 21:31

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. The incident occurred just before he was set to travel to Mecca for Umrah.

## Details of the Event

Özkan, dressed in the traditional ihram attire, was with a group of approximately 180 pilgrims. They had gathered at the airport around 2am, having completed their travel procedures. Özkan led a farewell prayer and was reciting the Talbiyah prayer, a customary part of the pilgrimage, when he suddenly collapsed.

## Immediate Response

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

## Community Reaction

Özkan was a respected figure in his community, having served as a religious leader in the Beyşehir district. His colleague, İsmail Gümüş, noted that Özkan had shown no prior signs of illness. The mufti of Beyşehir, Enes Aktaş, paid tribute to Özkan, highlighting his long-standing service 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, all mourning the loss of a revered community leader.

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