Bolu Province, Türkiye — In a devastating turn of events, the death toll from the fire that swept through the Kartalkaya ski resort has risen to 76. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced on Tuesday that nine individuals have been detained in connection with the incident as investigations intensify.
Speaking to reporters at the scene, Minister Yerlikaya confirmed the completion of search and rescue operations. \"Unfortunately, the number of lives lost has increased to 76. Our teams have finalized their search efforts, and investigations are ongoing,\" he stated solemnly.
The blaze erupted in the early hours of Tuesday, rapidly engulfing the 12-story wooden hotel nestled in the popular alpine retreat. Initial findings suggest that the fire originated in the restaurant area on the fourth floor before swiftly spreading to the upper levels, trapping many guests in their rooms.
The hotel was hosting 238 guests amid the bustling holiday season, many of whom had come to enjoy the pristine slopes of the Koroglu mountains. Emergency services faced formidable challenges due to the hotel's wooden structure and strong mountain winds that fueled the flames.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has declared a national day of mourning on Wednesday. In a press conference following a cabinet meeting, he expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy. \"Those who caused such a disaster in any way, those who have negligence and fault will be held accountable before the law,\" Erdogan vowed.
The incident has sent shockwaves throughout Türkiye and the international community, as Kartalkaya is a renowned destination attracting tourists from around the globe. Located approximately 300 kilometers east of Istanbul, the resort is celebrated for its picturesque landscapes and winter sports facilities.
Authorities are urging patience and support as they work diligently to uncover the causes of the fire and bring justice to those affected. The tragedy underscores the critical importance of safety regulations and emergency preparedness in the hospitality industry, especially in high-risk environments.
Reference(s):
Death toll rises to 76 in Türkiye ski resort fire, 9 detained
cgtn.com
