Shooter Gets 29-Year Sentence For Killing Woman In Mall Attack

Bülent Arpacı, aged 26, received a total sentence of 29 years in prison from a Diyarbakır court for opening fire on a café inside a shopping center, an act that resulted in the death of 22-year-old Merve Nur Yararlık and injuries to another individual, S.K. The verdict was delivered following a trial where the defendant claimed he did not know the victim.

Court hands down final verdict

The judicial panel convicted Arpacı on three distinct counts: "killing with possible intent" regarding Merve Nur Yararlık, carrying a sentence of 18 years; "attempted intentional killing" concerning S.K., resulting in 9 years; and illegal possession of firearms without a license, which added 2 years plus a fine of 10,000 TL. These penalties collectively amount to the 29-year imprisonment term imposed on the defendant.

Details of the March incident

The events unfolded on March 8, 2025, at a café located at the entrance of a shopping mall situated along the Şanlıurfa highway. Security footage captured Arpacı firing a handgun from outside the establishment. A bullet struck Merve Nur Yararlık in the neck, while S.K., who was seated nearby, sustained injuries. Emergency health and police units arrived at the scene after receiving reports. Medical personnel confirmed Yararlık’s death at the location, whereas S.K. was transported to a hospital for treatment following initial first aid. Yararlık’s body was buried at Yeniköy Asri Cemetery after an autopsy conducted by the Forensic Medicine Institution.

Arrest and legal proceedings

Homicide Bureau teams from the Asayiş Directorate apprehended Arpacı during an operation in the Pirinçlik area. He was detained by a court after being brought before the judiciary. The Diyarbakır Chief Public Prosecutor's Office prepared an indictment accepted by the 3rd Heavy Criminal Court, seeking aggravated life imprisonment and terms ranging from 15 to 24 years for charges including intentional killing, attempted murder, and illegal weapon possession.

Family statements and defense arguments

During the fourth hearing, Merve Nur’s father, Osman Yararlık, stated he believed the incident was not accidental and resumed his complaint against the suspect. This followed an earlier petition submitted on May 20, in which he had withdrawn his complaint, claiming the death was accidental, while her mother also indicated she would not pursue charges. In his defense, Arpacı reiterated previous statements, asserting he knew S.K. and fired at him, but claimed ignorance of Merve Nur Yararlık’s identity. He requested release, while the victim’s parents demanded punishment. The Ministry of Family and Social Services’ lawyer also participated in the final hearing alongside the family and legal representatives.