- A massive fire tore through a popular beachfront resort in the Dominican Republic, killing an Italian tourist and forcing the evacuation of nearly 1,700 guests as firefighters battled flames that engulfed much of the property.
An Italian tourist was killed and nearly 1,700 guests were evacuated after a major fire destroyed large sections of a luxury beach resort in the Dominican Republic, authorities said.
The blaze broke out on Friday at the Viva Dominicus Beach by Wyndham resort in Bayahibe, a popular tourist destination on the country’s southeastern coast. The fire rapidly spread through several buildings, sending thick plumes of black smoke into the sky and prompting a large-scale emergency response.
Local authorities said approximately 1,690 tourists were evacuated from the resort and relocated to nearby hotels and temporary accommodation as firefighters worked to contain the flames.
Images from the scene showed large sections of the resort engulfed in fire, with much of the thatched roofing consumed by the blaze. Fire crews, supported by helicopters collecting seawater, battled the flames for several hours before bringing the situation under control.
Local media reported that an Italian tourist died in the incident, while several other guests received medical treatment. Authorities have not yet released further details about the victim.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes as holidaymakers gathered along the beach watching emergency teams tackle the fire. Canadian tourist Nicole Anrusyshyn told local media that helicopters repeatedly scooped water from the ocean to help contain the blaze.
Investigators have launched an inquiry into the cause of the fire, which remains unknown.
