A tragic fire at a hotel in Turkey’s Kartalkaya Ski Resort has resulted in at least 66 deaths and left 51 others injured. The blaze erupted in the early hours of Tuesday morning, around 3 a.m., at the Grand Kartal Hotel, a popular accommodation at the resort.
Turkey’s Interior Minister, Ali Yerlikaya, expressed profound grief over the incident, stating, “We are in deep pain,” during a press briefing. He confirmed that the fire led to a significant loss of life, with many victims believed to have succumbed to smoke inhalation and suffocation.
The fire, which rapidly spread through the hotel, prompted emergency services to rush to the scene. Officials have not yet provided details on the cause of the fire, but investigations are underway. While rescue teams continue to treat the injured and search for survivors, authorities are working to understand the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Kartalkaya is a renowned ski destination in Turkey, attracting visitors during the winter season. The fire has cast a shadow over the resort, and local officials are offering their full support to those affected by the tragedy.
The incident underscores concerns about fire safety in hospitality settings, especially in popular tourist destinations. It is expected that the government will initiate a full investigation into the safety measures at the Grand Kartal Hotel and similar establishments in the region.
References:
- Turkish Interior Ministry Statement: Details from the press briefing by Minister Ali Yerlikaya.
- Kartalkaya Ski Resort: General information on the location and significance of the resort in Turkey’s winter tourism.
