The fire at the Grand Kartal Hotel, located at the Kartalkaya ski resort in the Turkish province of Bolu, has become one of the most tragic disasters in the country in recent times. According to the latest data, the number of fatalities has increased to 76.

Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya reported that the identities of 52 victims have already been confirmed, and 45 bodies have been released to their families. He expressed his condolences to their families and the entire Turkish nation.

At the time of the fire, there were 234 people in the hotel. According to preliminary information, the fire broke out in the restaurant area on the fourth floor at 03:27 local time. Firefighters arrived at the scene at 04:15, but the wooden structure of the building contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.

In connection with the incident, nine people have been detained, including the hotel owner.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan declared January 22 a day of mourning in the country.

The causes of the fire have not yet been established. The prosecutor's office is conducting an investigation, which is expected to be completed within ten days.

ORIENT News