Turkish authorities have arrested nine people, including the owner of the Grand Kartal Hotel, following a devastating fire that killed 76 people and injured dozens more at the Kartalkaya ski resort. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed the arrests on Wednesday, according to HotNews.
The bodies of 45 victims have been identified and handed over to their families, while forensic teams continue DNA tests to confirm the identities of the remaining deceased.
Tragedy Strikes Popular Resort
The fire broke out at approximately 3:30 a.m. local time in the restaurant area of the 12-story hotel, which had 238 registered guests at the time.
Flames quickly engulfed the building, forcing terrified guests to flee through smoke-filled corridors and even jump from windows to escape. Survivors described the scene as chaotic, with no fire alarms sounding and hallways plunged into darkness.
In a statement, the hotel expressed its condolences and pledged full cooperation with authorities, saying, “We are deeply saddened by the loss and share this pain with all our heart.”
Growing Criticism and Investigation
Officials are facing mounting scrutiny over the hotel's safety standards, with many questioning the lack of functioning fire alarms and evacuation plans.
Survivors and tourists have voiced their frustration, stating that they had no guidance during the crisis and had to find their own way out.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has declared a national day of mourning to honor the victims of the tragedy.
The fire occurred during the peak winter tourism season, a time when families from major cities like Istanbul and Ankara flock to the Bolu Mountains for skiing and leisure activities.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the cause of the fire and assess potential negligence that may have contributed to the disaster.
