Masked gunmen storm church and shoot several people, killing at least one during Sunday service in Istanbul

A masked gunman stormed a church in Turkey during Sunday mass this morning, killing one with a bullet to the head.

Two thugs opened fire on unsuspecting churchgoers who were shot during the brutal ambush.

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The horror attack at Santa Maria Church in Istanbul took place during Sunday mass.

The attackers stormed the building wearing ski masks, unleashing bullets as attendees threw themselves to the ground.

One man died after being shot in the head, while more were injured.

The gunmen escaped after the attack around 11:40 am. T24 reports.

Turkish Minister Ali Yerlikaya wrote on to live.

“A full-scale investigation has been launched into the matter and efforts have been made to nab the attackers.

“We strongly condemn this vicious attack.”

Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu also wrote: “We will never allow those who try to destroy our unity and peace by attacking the religious places of our city”.

It is not yet clear why the gunmen opened fire on the church and whether they were linked to a specific group.

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