N.Y. mom found dead in Turkey

Sarai Sierra, a 33-year-old mother of three from New York City, was found dead near Istanbul's ancient city walls on Feb. 2, 2013, 12 days after her family reported her missing. She was vacationing alone in the city and exploring her photography hobby. She had planned to travel to Turkey with a friend, but that person canceled for financial reasons. Authorities said Sierra died of a blow to the head. On March 18, 2013, Ziya Tasali, a 46-year-old Turkish man, was charged in her murder, the state-run Anadolu agency reported. Anadolu reported that Tasali - described as a homeless scrap paper collector - allegedly admitted while being questioned by prosecutors that he attacked Sierra while under the influence of vapors from inhaling paint thinner, then fled the scene. A trial date will be scheduled after prosecutors prepare an indictment detailing the charges.

Police officers escort Ziya Tasali, a 46-year-old Turkish man, outside a security office in Istanbul, Turkey on March 18, 2013. Tasali is charged with murder in the death of Sarai Sierra, a 33-year-old New York City mother, who was killed while vacationing in Istanbul in January 2013.

Sarai Sierra in an undated photo.

Sarai Sierra in an undated photo.

A missing poster for Sarai Sierra.

A screenshot of a Facebook community page for Sarai Sierra.