ANKARA – A tragic incident unfolded in Turkey's southeastern province of Sanliurfa, where a teenager opened fire at a school, injuring at least 16 people, including students and teachers, before taking his own life.

The 19-year-old former student, armed with a rifle, carried out the attack in the Siverek district. Local authorities reported that the wounded victims were quickly transported to nearby hospitals. Of the 16 injured, 12 remain in the hospital under medical care.

The assailant, whose motives remain unclear, took his own life after police arrived at the scene and attempted to apprehend him, according to Governor Hasan Sildak.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, raising concerns over the safety of students and the ongoing issue of school violence. Local authorities are investigating the matter, while the community grapples with the aftermath of the tragedy.

Reporting by Huseyin Hayatsever; Editing by Jonathan Spicer/Reuters