A devastating fire at a popular ski resort in northwestern Turkiye has claimed 66 lives and injured 51 others. Officials confirmed the tragic incident early Tuesday, describing it as one of the most harrowing events in recent memory. The fire broke out at the 12-story Grand Kartal Hotel in Kartalkaya, located about 170 kilometers northwest of Ankara. Notably, the tragedy occurred during a busy two-week school holiday, adding to the heartbreak.
Desperate Escape Attempts
Amid the chaos, witnesses reported desperate efforts by guests to escape the engulfing flames. Some guests tied bedsheets together to use as makeshift ropes, while others, tragically, jumped from windows. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya expressed profound grief, stating, “Our pain is great,” while confirming that the fire had finally been contained.
The blaze reportedly began at 3:27 a.m. (0027 GMT) in the hotel’s restaurant area. It quickly spread through the wooden-clad building, leaving little time for evacuation. Additionally, the hotel’s location, partially backed by a cliff, made firefighting efforts even more challenging.
Investigations and Arrests
In response to the disaster, authorities have detained four suspects, including the hotel owner, as investigations gain momentum. Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc revealed that six prosecutors are now working to uncover the fire’s cause. Although preliminary reports suggest the fire originated in the restaurant, its exact cause remains under investigation.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan addressed the nation, emphasizing the gravity of the tragedy. He assured citizens that “all necessary steps will be taken to uncover the truth and hold those responsible accountable.”
Turkiye: Survivor Accounts
Heartbreaking survivor accounts highlight the chaos and despair during the fire. Baris Salgur, an employee at a nearby hotel, recalled hearing panicked screams. He described guests begging for help and resorting to jumping when flames approached. “We did what we could,” Salgur shared, recounting efforts to provide blankets and ropes to aid escapes.
In the aftermath, serious questions have arisen about the hotel’s safety measures. Survivors reported the absence of fire alarms, smoke detectors, or functional fire escapes. Meanwhile, Tourism Minister Nuri Ersoy stated that the hotel held a fire safety certificate and had two fire escapes. He emphasized the importance of regular inspections by authorities.
Aftermath of Turkiye Resort
Images from the scene revealed a charred lobby, shattered glass, and blackened furniture. The affected guests have been relocated to nearby hotels. As Turkiye mourns this devastating loss, officials are focused on ensuring accountability and preventing future tragedies.
