Paphos tragedy: 15-year-old dies in motorcycle crash – Authorities investigate stray dog link
The fatal road collision that claimed the life of 15-year-old Ivan Gurbetoglu near the village of Choletria in the Paphos district has left a community in mourning and authorities searching for answers. The incident, which unfolded between Friday evening and Saturday afternoon, continues to raise questions as investigators examine several possible scenarios.
Timeline of events
According to police and local reports, Ivan Gurbetoglu, a 15-year-old Turkish Cypriot from Choletria, left his home in the community of Statos-Agios Fotios around 8:00 p.m. on Friday, 11 July, reportedly riding a motorcycle to travel towards Paphos. When he failed to return home, relatives and friends began searching for him the next morning, without initially notifying the police.
At approximately 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, 12 July, Ivan was found unconscious and unresponsive in a roadside ditch near the entrance to Choletria, along the Nikoklia–Choletria road. A motorcycle and helmet were discovered near his body, and an abandoned van was also found close to the scene, raising initial suspicions.
Emergency services were alerted, and the boy was transported by ambulance to Paphos General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead by the on-duty doctor.
Autopsy findings and investigation
Forensic pathologists Angeliki Papetta and Orthodoxos Orthodoxou conducted an on-site autopsy. They observed that the teen had sustained multiple small injuries to the back and gluteal areas, consistent with an impact involving shotgun pellets. However, this finding initially appeared inconsistent with the reported road collision.
Later developments clarified that these injuries were not from a weapon but rather from his motorcycle crash. According to investigators, the bike veered off course under circumstances still being examined and collided with a tree.
Stray dog discovered – New scenario emerges
A key development emerged when a stray dog was found dead near the scene. A necropsy revealed that the animal had injuries consistent with being struck by a vehicle. This has led investigators to consider the possibility that Ivan may have collided with the dog while riding, causing him to lose control of his motorcycle.
Though plausible, this theory has not yet been confirmed as definitive. Investigators are carefully assessing all available evidence before reaching a final conclusion.
Police response and ongoing efforts
The Paphos Traffic Department and local police units continue to investigate the incident thoroughly. Officers have reviewed the scene, collected forensic evidence, and are evaluating witness testimony, including the timeline of the teenager’s last known movements.
Authorities have not ruled out any scenario but have stated that no single cause has been officially established yet. The discovery of the abandoned van nearby has also not been conclusively linked to the crash.
Community impact
The tragic loss of Ivan Gurbetoglu has deeply shaken the local community. Questions remain over whether the crash could have been prevented and whether early notification of the boy’s disappearance could have altered the outcome.
The case has also reignited concerns about road safety, stray animals, and the responsibilities of riders and local authorities alike. As the investigation continues, the family and the public await clarity and closure.
Also read: Paphos murder: 78-year-old confesses, victim linked to suspect
