On October 23, a tragic terrorist attack unfolded at the headquarters of the Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAS) in the suburbs of Ankara, resulting in the deaths of five individuals and injuries to 22 others. The attack, which Turkish authorities initially classified as terrorism, is under investigation.

The incident occurred around 3 PM local time, during a shift change for security personnel. Reports indicate that the assailant, armed with an assault rifle, arrived at the building entrance in a taxi and detonated explosives, creating chaos. Explosions and gunfire were heard as the shooter engaged in a firefight with security guards.

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed, “Unfortunately, we have five martyrs and 22 wounded from the attack. Three of the injured have been discharged from the hospital, and 19 others are currently receiving treatment.” He reported that the attackers, a male and a female, have been killed, and their identities are being verified. However, details regarding the possibility of any additional gunmen fleeing the scene remain unclear.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan condemned the heinous attack and expressed condolences for the fallen. Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz noted that out of the five deceased, four were employees of TUSAS, while one was the taxi driver who transported the gunman to the site.

As of now, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack. However, Turkish Defense Minister Yasar Guler pointed towards the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) as a possible suspect, stating that despite facing deserved penalties in the past, they have not reformed. He assured that the military will continue actions against them until the last terrorist is eliminated.

According to the Associated Press, the instigators of the attack have not yet been identified. Historically, Turkey has faced attacks from Kurdish militants, ISIS, and leftist extremists.

The Daily Sabah, the largest English-language newspaper in Turkey, suggested that this could potentially be a suicide bombing. Emergency responses from security forces, ambulances, and firefighters quickly arrived at the scene.

Reports confirm that TUSAS employs over 15,000 staff members, many of whom have since been moved to secure locations. TUSAS is a leading player in Turkey’s defense and aerospace sectors, producing the country’s first domestically-built combat aircraft, the KAAN, as well as a range of trainer aircraft, fighter jets, and civilian helicopters.