At least 66 dead in ski resort fire

TOA, TURKEY – A tragic fire at a ski resort in the scenic C Coru Mountains has claimed the lives of at least 66 people, according to government officials. The blaze, which erupted in the early hours of the morning, forced panicked guests to leap from the 12-story hotel engulfed in flames. The resort, located in the Clea district, is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, especially during the current school holiday period.

The fire began around 3:30 a.m. in the hotel’s kitchen, which backs onto a cliff, complicating efforts for firefighters to tackle the inferno. Despite the hotel’s compliance with safety regulations, including having two fire exits, the cause of the fire remains undetermined. Turkish authorities have launched an investigation to uncover the origins of the deadly blaze.

The hotel, constructed with wooden cladding, was fully booked with families enjoying a winter break. The Health Ministry reports that alongside the fatalities, at least 51 individuals sustained injuries, with several in critical condition. The tragedy has sparked outrage on social media, as many victims were children on vacation with their families.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan addressed the nation, expressing his condolences and emphasizing the urgency of the investigation. He reassured the public that the hotel had met all the necessary safety requirements, but the fire has nonetheless raised concerns about building safety standards.

This incident echoes past criticisms of building codes in Turkey, particularly following the devastating earthquake near the Syrian border earlier in 2023. As the investigation unfolds, authorities are under pressure to ensure that such tragedies can be prevented in the future.

The tourism and interior ministers have visited the site, promising transparency and swift action in the investigation. Meanwhile, the community mourns the loss of lives in an event that was meant to be a joyful escape for many families.

As the nation grapples with this disaster, questions remain about the safety of similar establishments and the sufficiency of current regulations. The government’s response in the coming days will be critical in addressing public concerns and preventing future incidents.