ALBAWABA - Preliminary autopsy reveals initial findings in Ece İrtem death investigation.
The investigation into the sudden death of Turkish actress Ece İrtem has entered a new phase after the release of a preliminary autopsy report, which identifies a heart attack as the initial cause of death while confirming that forensic authorities are continuing to examine several other possibilities.
Ece İrtem, who was 35, passed away on June 15, leaving the Turkish entertainment industry and her fans in shock. Best known for portraying Işıl in the hit series Kızılcık Şerbeti (Cranberry Sorbet), the actress had also appeared in numerous other television productions throughout her career.
According to Turkish newspaper Milliyet, the preliminary report prepared by the Council of Forensic Medicine (Adli Tıp Kurumu) concludes that the initial findings indicate İrtem died from a heart attack. However, investigators stress that the report is not the final conclusion, and the exact cause of death will only be confirmed after all forensic examinations and laboratory analyses have been completed.
One of the most closely examined aspects of the investigation involves claims surrounding Ece İrtem's recent trip to Thailand.
According to documents submitted to prosecutors by the actress's lawyer, Uğur Gökkoyun, İrtem may have been attacked by a monkey during her vacation shortly before returning to Türkiye. Turkish media report that investigators have officially included this allegation in the case file and are examining whether the incident could have contributed to her death.
The alleged animal attack has also led investigators to consider the possibility of sepsis, a life-threatening condition caused by the body's extreme response to an infection. Although no official medical conclusion has linked sepsis to Ece İrtem's death, authorities are examining whether an untreated injury or infection could have played any role.
As part of the investigation, forensic experts are also examining marks found on the actress's arms. Officials are trying to determine when the injuries occurred, what caused them, and if they are linked and if they relate to her death.
Sources close to the investigation have emphasized that no single theory has been confirmed. Instead, forensic specialists are reviewing every available medical record, laboratory result, and physical finding before reaching a final conclusion.
The final forensic report is expected to include the results of toxicology tests, tissue examinations, laboratory analyses, and any additional medical evidence collected during the investigation. Only after those procedures are complete will prosecutors officially determine the exact cause of Ece İrtem's death.
Ece İrtem built a successful career in Turkish television over the past decade. In addition to her memorable role in Kızılcık Şerbeti, she appeared in popular productions including Kaçış, Mahkum, Payitaht Abdülhamid, Şeref Sözü, and Hayat Sevince Güzel. Known for her versatility and warm personality, she earned admiration from both colleagues and viewers, while her unexpected death prompted an outpouring of tributes from across Türkiye's entertainment industry.
As the investigation continues, authorities have urged the public to avoid speculation until the Council of Forensic Medicine issues its final report, which is expected to provide definitive answers regarding the circumstances surrounding the actress's death.
