Archaeologist Sertel Killed in a 'Dispute Over Cutting Trees’ in Olympos, Antalya
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Archaeologist Sinan Sertel, who was doing his PhD in Olympos Ancient City excavations in Antalya and was the vice chair of the excavation team, was attacked in Çıralı Beach in Kemer at around 3.30 p.m. yesterday (May 19).
A dispute erupted between archaeologist Sinan Sertel (32) and S.P. over the allegations that trees were being cut during the excavation works in the Olympos Ancient City in Kumluca district in Antalya.
The dispute escalated and S.P. stabbed Sertel in his chest. While S.P. left the scene of incident, Sinan Sertel was severely injured. He lost his life while he was being taken to hospital in an ambulance.
The excavation team has announced that the deceased body of archaeologist Sinan Sertel will be laid to rest today. Accordingly, a funeral ceremony will be held for Sertel at Antalya Arhcaeology Museum at 12 p.m.
S.P. taken into custody
It has been reported that Sertel lost his life as the knife harmed his cardiac membrane. Sinan Sertel was doing his PhD in the excavation in Olympos Ancient City and was the vice chair of the excavation team.
The gendarmerie officers caught and detained S.P. shortly after he escaped from the crime scene. Deposing to the gendarmerie, the suspect first stated that he threw the knife in the sea. However, changing his deposition, S.P. then stated that he threw the murder weapon to the woods.
It has been reported later that the gendarmerie could find the knife in accordance with the deposition of the suspect.
Archaeologists Association: We are in sorrow
Releasing a message regarding the death of Sertel, the İstanbul Branch of Turkish Archaeologists Association has extended its condolences:
"We have learned to our sorrow that the esteemed member of Olympos excavation team Sinan Sertel has left us as a result of a vicious attack while he was on duty. We extend our condolences to his loved ones, Olympos Excavation Team and our whole community." (PT/SD)