UPDATE: A Turkish-German family of four has tragically died in Istanbul, likely due to toxic gas emitted from pesticides used in their hotel room, according to a preliminary autopsy report. The Bocek family, who had just arrived from Germany, fell ill during their stay in the Fatih district on November 12, 2025.
The family sought medical attention after becoming unwell, initially taking a taxi to a local hospital. However, their condition worsened, and they were later transported by ambulance on the following day. Sadly, their two children, Kadir Muhammet, aged 6, and Masal, aged 3, died that same day. Their mother, Cigdem Bocek, passed away on November 14, and their father, Servet Bocek, succumbed to the illness on November 17.
Authorities have confirmed that preliminary tests revealed the presence of phosphine gas, a potent insecticide, on towels and masks from the hotel room. These findings were reported by Turkey’s state-run news agency, Anadolu. Initial fears regarding food poisoning from street food have been dispelled, as autopsy results indicate that food was not the source of the family’s illness.
The deaths of the Bocek family have raised urgent concerns over hotel safety standards, prompting calls for stricter regulations in hospitality services. The hotel where the family stayed has since been closed, and 11 individuals have been arrested in connection with the investigation.
Two other tourists at the same hotel also reported symptoms of nausea and vomiting and were hospitalized, raising alarm over the hotel’s practices in handling pest control.
The situation continues to develop, with authorities urging immediate reviews of safety protocols in hotels across the region. This heartbreaking incident underscores the vital importance of ensuring guest safety in the hospitality industry. As investigations proceed, more updates are expected in the coming days.
Stay tuned for further developments on this urgent matter.
