Fire at Caribbean resort causes death of Italian tourist and evacuation of almost 1,700 guests in Bayahibe
A massive fire at Viva Dominicus Beach by Wyndham, a luxury hotel complex in Bayahibe, Dominican Republic, caused the death of an Italian tourist and the urgent evacuation of almost 1,700 individuals. The resort is a well-known tourist attraction in the southeastern coastal region of the country.
Victim details and assistance to the injured
The DAEH emergency service confirmed the identity of the fatality as Francesca Valentino, aged 46. Additionally, three individuals were taken to hospitals, while six others received medical care at the scene. Among those affected by the incident were both visitors and guests and emergency response teams.
Visual records of the devastation and rapid spread
Visual records broadcast by local media captured a dense plume of dark smoke rising over the Caribbean coast. Aerial drone footage showed the rapid advance of the flames, which consumed significant parts of the resort, including sections covered by thatched roofs.
Mass evacuation and start of investigation
Dominican Republic authorities reported that approximately 1,690 tourists were relocated to different hotels and accommodations in the vicinity. Although the fire is now under control, the reasons that started it continue to be investigated.
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Factors that contributed to the intense spread of the fire
The Dominican Emergency Operations Center revealed that initial analyzes suggest an accelerated spread of the flames. This phenomenon was attributed to the combination of wind strength and the flammable nature of the straw material used in part of the hotel complex’s roof.
Other ventures in the network remain intact
Another resort from the same chain, Viva Dominicus Palace, located nearby, was not affected by the fire. As attested by authorities, its operations continued without interruption.
Tourist relevance of the Dominican Republic in the region
The Dominican Republic stands out as the main tourist hub in the Caribbean, renowned for its white sand beaches and transparent waters, factors that attract millions. In the first five months of this year alone, the country welcomed approximately 5.6 million tourists, which demonstrates the scale of its tourism industry and the importance of safeguarding its enterprises.
Wyndham Hotels’ silence on the incident
Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, a corporation that licenses around 8,400 hotel units globally, did not immediately comment on the incident after being contacted for comment.
