Raging inferno at Dominican resort leaves one dead, nearly 1,700 forced to evacuate
A massive, out-of-control inferno tore through a beachfront resort in the Dominican Republic on Friday, killing a woman and forcing the evacuation of nearly 1,700 guests and staff.
The fierce and fast-spreading fire broke out at the Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach Hotel, sending plumes of thick, dark smoke billowing over the picturesque Caribbean coastline.
Video footage shows voracious flames and smoke sweeping through thatched roofs and hotel facilities.
One woman, identified as 46-year-old Italian national Francesca Valentino, was killed.
Three people were taken to medical facilities in Bayahibe, and six others were treated at the scene, according to the Dominican Republic’s pre-hospital emergency directorate.
Initial reports indicate that the fire ignited due to “roof structures made of palm” and unfavorable weather conditions, according to authorities.
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“Preliminary observations indicate that the fire spread rapidly due to the flammable nature of parts of the roof structures made of palm, as well as wind conditions,” the Dominican Emergency Operations Center (COE) said.
“Tourist activities in Bayahibe and the surrounding area remain unaffected and continue to take place safely and as normal,” COE added.
The Viva Wyndham Dominicus Palace, part of the same chain, did not sustain any damage.
Bayahibe is a popular destination for U.S. and international tourists on the Dominican Republic’s southeastern coast.
Wyndham Hotels did not immediately respond to The Post’s request for comment.
With Post wires
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