6.1 magnitude earthquake hits western Türkiye

ISTANBUL

Türkiye was rocked late Sunday by a 6.1 magnitude earthquake.

The Disaster and Emergency Management Agency said the quake was centered in the Sindirgi district of Balikesir province in western Türkiye.

The tremor was measured at a depth of 11 kilometers (6.8 miles).

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said an 81-year-old citizen died after being rescued from a collapsed building. Twenty-nine others who were wounded have also been rescued, with none in life-threatening conditions.

Initial evaluations indicate that 16 buildings in 68 neighborhoods have collapsed as a result of the earthquake and aftershocks.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan conveyed his condolences to all affected, saying he would closely follow the aftermath.