In a tragic turn of events, Yahya Tarih, a former pilot with 11 years of service in the Turkish Armed Forces, including as an F-4 and F-16 fighter pilot, lost his life in a tractor accident in his hometown of Karaboğaz Village in Kayseri, Turkey. His story is a mix of military service, allegations, and personal tragedy.
Allegations and Dismissal
According to a news report by Sevinc Ozarslan published in Kronos36news in Turkish, Yahya Tarih’s journey took a controversial turn in 2020 when he was dismissed from military service on allegations of wiretapped phone calls. Subsequently, he was arrested and sent to Sincan Prison, where he served a one-year sentence. His case was under review at the Court of Cassation.
Return to Civilian Life
After his release from prison, Tarih returned to civilian life, working as a farmer alongside his father. They were engaged in the cultivation of crops like corn, potatoes, and wheat.
The Tragic Accident
The tragic accident occurred on the morning of August 19, 2023. Tarih, who was loading wheat onto a trailer from a field, had typically chosen a winding but safer route home. However, on the day of the accident, he opted for a shorter but steeper road. Sadly, Tarih lost control of the tractor, resulting in a fatal overturn.
A Life Cut Short
Yahya Tarih was just 36 years old, leaving behind a wife and a 3-year-old son. His funeral took place in Karaboğaz Village, where his father, Nahit Tarih, had passed away three months earlier.
Tarih’s life journey, marked by military service, legal challenges, and ultimately, a tragic accident, stands as a poignant tale of the complexities of human experience.