21.07.2026 18:31
A fire started by 72-year-old Aziz Balaban, who set dry grass alight to clean his hobby garden in Ankara's Gölbaşı district, spread to a neighboring field due to the wind. While trying to extinguish the flames, Balaban collapsed and was taken to the hospital, where he died. An investigation has been launched into Balaban's death, as he was bid a tearful farewell on his final journey.
Aziz Balaban lit a fire to clear dry grass in his hobby garden in the Gökçehüyük neighborhood of Ankara's Gölbaşı district.
FLAMES SPREAD TO NEIGHBORING FIELD, HE COLLAPSED WHILE TRYING TO EXTINGUISH IT
The flames, fueled by the wind, spread to a neighboring field. Balaban, 72, lost his balance and collapsed while trying to extinguish the fire in the cultivated area. Upon notification, fire, medical, and gendarmerie teams were dispatched to the scene. The fire was brought under control with the intervention of firefighters. Despite initial medical assistance, Balaban, who was taken to Gölbaşı State Hospital, passed away.
LAID TO REST AMID TEARS
The funeral prayer for Balaban was held at Ahmet Efendi Mosque at noon today. After the prayer, he was laid to rest at Karşıyaka Cemetery amid tears. An investigation into the incident has been launched.