Tragic Hotel Fire Strikes Turkish Ski Resort

A devastating fire engulfed a hotel in the ski resort of Kartalkaya, located in Turkey's Bolu province, leading to the tragic loss of at least 10 lives and injuring 32 others. The fire broke out during the night at the Grand Kartal Hotel's restaurant, swiftly spreading due to the building's wooden facade. Guests, caught in the chaos, resorted to jumping from windows in a desperate bid to escape the flames.

The incident occurred during a busy school holiday period, with the hotel reportedly hosting 234 guests. The rapid spread of the fire was exacerbated by strong winds, complicating the efforts of the 30 fire engines and 28 ambulances dispatched to the scene. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed the number of casualties, while local authorities launched an investigation into the fire's cause, which remains unknown.

Eyewitness accounts describe scenes of panic as some guests attempted to climb down from their rooms using bedsheets. The thick smoke and flames made finding exits difficult, further hindering evacuation efforts. In response, nearby hotels were evacuated as a precaution.

Kartalkaya, situated in the Koroglu Mountains and approximately 300 kilometers east of Istanbul, is a popular winter destination. The tragic event underscores the importance of stringent safety measures in tourist hotspots, especially those with high guest occupancy during peak seasons. As rescue and emergency teams continue their work, the nation mourns this tragic loss during what was meant to be a season of leisure and enjoyment.