Rojin’s Cause of Death Confirmed: Disturbing DNA Discovery and New Forensic Details

The long-awaited forensic report into the death of 21-year-old university student Rojin Kabaiş has finally revealed the official cause of death. According to authorities, Rojin died from drowning — but the investigation has taken a troubling turn after DNA from two different men was discovered on her body.

Rojin’s body was discovered on October 15, 2024, on the shores of Lake Van, 18 days after she went missing. The forensic report, prepared by the Van Forensic Medicine Group Presidency and reviewed by national prosecutors, has ruled out several initial theories — but the presence of multiple male DNA profiles raises new and unanswered questions about the circumstances leading to her death.

Forensic Report Confirms Drowning as Cause of Death

The detailed autopsy and forensic analysis concluded that Rojin Kabaiş died by drowning. Examinations of her internal organs, soft tissues, and neck bones revealed no significant signs of trauma, poisoning, or sexual assault. Experts stated that she likely died on September 27, 2024 — the same day she was reported missing — and may have been in the water until her body was recovered on October 15.

Advanced decomposition made it difficult to assess potential soft-tissue trauma, but the forensic board noted that there was no evidence of assault involving penetration or object insertion. Toxicology tests also showed no signs of poisoning, though trace amounts of ornidazole, rocuronium, and ethanol were detected — substances believed to be related to decomposition rather than foul play.

The report further noted discoloration compatible with bleeding on Rojin’s chest and knees, but no bone fractures or foreign objects were found. A small decomposition-related lesion on her left hand’s fifth finger suggested post-mortem dragging in water.

Shocking DNA Findings Complicate the Investigation

Perhaps the most alarming revelation from the report is the discovery of two separate male DNA profiles from different areas of Rojin’s body — one intravaginal and one on the sternal (chest) region. Out of 80 swab samples collected, only one from the vaginal area and one from the chest yielded foreign DNA.

The forensic team thoroughly examined the possibility of contamination during the body’s transport, autopsy, and laboratory processes. While no contamination was detected during these steps, investigators could not completely rule out contamination during the body’s recovery from water, contact at the discovery site, or handling during the transfer process.

Authorities have urged prosecutors to collect biological samples from potential suspects. Comparing these samples with the foreign DNA profiles could determine whether they belong to individuals involved in Rojin’s disappearance and death.

Unanswered Questions: Suicide, Accident, or Foul Play?

Despite the confirmation of drowning, investigators remain uncertain whether Rojin’s death was the result of suicide, an accident, or homicide. The report stated that, based on current evidence, no definitive conclusion could be drawn about whether external involvement played a role in her drowning.

This ambiguity, combined with the unexplained male DNA profiles, has intensified calls for further investigation. Many are now urging law enforcement to expand their search for suspects and re-examine the timeline of Rojin’s disappearance.

Rojin, a preschool education student at Van Yüzüncü Yıl University, disappeared on September 27, 2024. Her body was found nearly three weeks later on the shores of Lake Van, sparking nationwide outrage and renewed debate over women’s safety. She was laid to rest in Diyarbakır on October 16.

As the investigation continues, the discovery of foreign DNA and the unanswered questions surrounding Rojin Kabaiş’s death have turned what was once thought to be a tragic accident into a potential criminal case. Authorities remain under pressure to uncover the truth behind her final hours.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What was Rojin Kabaiş’s cause of death?

Forensic officials confirmed that Rojin died from drowning. However, it remains unclear whether it was suicide, an accident, or homicide.

Q2: Was there evidence of sexual assault in Rojin’s case?

No medical evidence of sexual assault was found during the autopsy. However, foreign male DNA was detected in two areas of her body.

Q3: Why is the DNA discovery significant?

The discovery of two different male DNA profiles raises questions about possible involvement of others in her death and could help identify suspects.

Q4: What are investigators doing now?

Authorities are seeking biological samples from potential suspects to compare with the DNA profiles and determine if they match anyone linked to the case.

Q5: When was Rojin found?

She was found on October 15, 2024, on the shores of Lake Van, 18 days after she was reported missing.

References

Reuters. (2025). “DNA from two men found on drowned student’s body, Turkish forensic report reveals.” October 12, 2025.

BBC News. (2025). “Rojin Kabaiş death: Drowning ruled cause as investigation into DNA evidence continues.” October 12, 2025.

Associated Press. (2025). “Student’s body found 18 days after disappearance; forensic report deepens mystery.” October 12, 2025.