Turkish prosecutors are intensifying a high-profile investigation into the death of Gül Tut, the arabesk/fantasy singer better known as Güllü, after new expert findings and witness statements prompted authorities to treat what was first described as a fall as a potential intentional killing case.
What happened
Güllü died on 26 September after falling from the balcony/window area of her home in Çınarcık (Yalova).
Early on, reporting focused on the possibility of an accident, especially after a toxicology assessment found 3.53 promil alcohol in her blood and no evidence of methanol, narcotics, or other toxic substances; the family’s lawyer said the findings strongly supported an accidental fall scenario tied to severe impairment and loss of coordination.
Why the case shifted toward suspected homicide
Recent developments pushed the file in a different direction:
- Forensic “3D simulation” assessment: A newly discussed expert review cited in Turkish media reported that body angle, contact points, acceleration values, and impact direction were analyzed using 3D modeling and multiple simulations, concluding the incident was not consistent with a normal reflexive fall and that external force / physical pressure was more likely—helping move the file into a murder-investigation track.
- Audio evidence claims and secrecy order: Reports say the home security system’s audio was sent for technical processing and that the resulting dialogue heightened suspicion. At the same time, officials stated the file is under a confidentiality (secrecy) order, meaning public claims about technical reports are disputed and not independently verifiable from the case file.
- “Confession” allegation from a friend present that night: According to reporting, the daughter’s friend Sultan Nur Ulu—who was reportedly in the home at the time—told police during questioning that Güllü was pushed by her daughter, while the daughter reportedly denied the claim.
- Separate witness statement about prior admissions: Another thread in the reporting centers on a statement attributed to Bircan Dülger, described as the daughter’s friend, who allegedly told prosecutors the daughter said things indicating responsibility and remorse (as quoted in Turkish press coverage).
Latest procedural status
Authorities detained the daughter, Tuğyan Ülkem Gülter, and Sultan Nur Ulu on suspicion of “intentional killing,” with additional detentions reported (including individuals linked to travel/transport). Five suspects, including the daughter, were later referred to the courthouse, and the daughter’s lawyers announced they were withdrawing from the case.
Background context
The case has been marked by sharply competing narratives:
- One side emphasizes the toxicology findings and the argument that extremely high intoxication (and reported prescribed medication) could explain a tragic fall.
- The other points to the newer expert analysis, the contested audio narrative, and witness statements alleging force—claims that investigators are now testing through detentions, technical review, and formal questioning.
