Authorities in Turkiye have arrested nine individuals, including the owner of the Grand Kartal Hotel, following a devastating fire on Tuesday that claimed the lives of 76 people. The blaze occurred at the ski resort hotel located in the Kartalkaya ski resort in the Bolu Mountains, a popular winter tourism destination.
Investigation Underway
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced the arrests on Wednesday and revealed that six prosecutors have been assigned to lead the investigation into the tragedy. The fire is believed to have originated in the hotel’s restaurant section on the ground floor of the 12-story building.
Concerns are mounting over the safety protocols at the resort. Witnesses and survivors reported that the hotel’s fire detection system failed to operate during the incident. No alarms were triggered, forcing guests to flee through smoke-filled corridors in complete darkness.
Survivors’ Accounts
The hotel had 238 registered guests at the time of the fire. Survivors described harrowing scenes of chaos and panic as they struggled to escape, with some resorting to jumping from windows to save their lives.
Minister Yerlikaya confirmed that the bodies of 45 victims have been identified and handed over to their families. DNA testing is being conducted to identify the remaining victims. Speaking outside the charred remains of the hotel, he stated:
“Our hearts are broken. We are in mourning. But you should know that whoever is responsible for causing this pain will not escape justice.”
Growing Criticism
The tragedy has sparked widespread criticism, with many questioning the adequacy of the hotel’s safety measures. The absence of a functioning fire alarm system has been a focal point of public outrage.
The Grand Kartal Hotel released a statement expressing its sorrow over the incident and pledging full cooperation with the investigation.
“We are deeply saddened by the losses and want you to know that we share this pain with all our hearts. We are cooperating with authorities to shed light on all aspects of this incident,” the statement read.
National Mourning Declared
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared a national day of mourning on Wednesday in honor of the victims. The fire comes during the peak of the winter tourism season, a crucial time for resorts like Kartalkaya, which is situated approximately 295km (183 miles) east of Istanbul and attracts thousands of visitors annually.
A Call for Accountability
As investigations continue, the arrests signify the government’s intent to hold those responsible accountable. Minister Yerlikaya emphasized that justice would be served, stating:
“We owe it to the victims and their families to uncover the truth and ensure such a tragedy does not occur again.”
