A deadly fire swept through the Grand Kartal Hotel at Kartalkaya ski resort in Turkey early Tuesday, leaving 10 people dead and 32 others injured, according to Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya. The fire broke out at 3:27 a.m. (0027 GMT) in the 12-storey hotel, known for its wooden cladding, and quickly spread through the structure. While the cause remains under investigation, authorities suspect the blaze may have started in the hotel’s restaurant.
At least three victims reportedly died after jumping from windows in a desperate attempt to escape the flames, private broadcaster NTV reported. The ski resort, located approximately 170 kilometers (100 miles) northwest of Ankara, was at peak occupancy due to school holidays. At the time of the incident, 237 guests were staying in the hotel. Many were evacuated and moved to nearby accommodations.
Television footage showed thick smoke billowing into the sky against the snow-covered mountains, while firefighters faced challenges accessing parts of the hotel that back onto a cliff. Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunç announced that six prosecutors have been assigned to investigate the tragedy, while senior government officials, including the ministers of health, interior, and culture, are expected to visit the site later on Tuesday.
This devastating incident has left the nation in mourning as authorities work to determine the cause of the fire and ensure accountability.
