Fire At Turkey’s Kartalkaya Ski Resort Kills 10, Injures 32
A devastating fire broke out at the Grand Kartal Hotel, located in Turkey’s popular Kartalkaya ski resort, early Tuesday morning, leaving 10 people dead and 32 others injured, according to Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya.
The blaze began at 3:27 AM (0027 GMT) in the 12-storey hotel, which features wooden cladding, and spread rapidly through the building. While the cause of the fire remains unclear, initial reports suggested that the fire may have originated from the hotel’s restaurant area around midnight.
Private broadcaster NTV reported that at least three of the victims died after jumping from the windows of the hotel in a desperate attempt to escape the flames. The ski resort, which is about 170 kilometers (100 miles) northwest of Ankara, was at peak occupancy due to the ongoing school holidays, with 237 guests staying at the hotel at the time.
Fortunately, many guests were successfully evacuated and relocated to nearby hotels. Television footage from the scene showed thick plumes of smoke rising into the sky, set against the backdrop of the snow-capped mountains, as firefighters struggled to contain the blaze. Access to certain parts of the hotel was made difficult by its location on a cliff, further complicating firefighting efforts.
Authorities are still working to determine the exact cause of the fire, with reports indicating that it may have started in the hotel’s restaurant area. Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunç confirmed that six prosecutors have been assigned to investigate the incident.
As of Tuesday afternoon, senior officials, including the ministers of health, interior, and culture, were expected to visit the site to assess the damage and oversee rescue operations.
The tragedy has shocked the country, and the Turkish government has expressed condolences to the families of the victims. Local authorities are continuing their efforts to provide medical treatment to the injured and ensure the safety of remaining guests.
