A devastating fire at a hotel in Kartalkaya, a popular ski resort in Bolu, Turkey, has tragically claimed the lives of at least 66 people, with 51 others injured, according to Turkey’s Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya.

The blaze broke out early Tuesday morning, with emergency services racing to the scene to tackle the flames. The Health Minister confirmed that at least one of the injured is in critical condition, adding to the gravity of the situation.

Minister’s Statement

“We are in deep pain. We have unfortunately lost 66 lives in the fire that broke out at this hotel,” Mr. Yerlikaya announced in a press conference.

Emergency Response

Firefighters worked tirelessly to extinguish the flames at the ski resort hotel, a popular destination for tourists and locals during the winter season. Images from the scene show fire crews battling thick smoke and intense flames as they attempted to contain the inferno.

The injured were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment, with medical teams working urgently to save lives and provide care.

Investigation Underway

Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire, with initial reports suggesting that the blaze may have started in the kitchen area and quickly spread through the building, which was at near-full capacity due to the busy ski season.

Witnesses described scenes of panic as guests attempted to evacuate amid the thick smoke and rapidly spreading flames. Many survivors were reportedly forced to jump from windows to escape the burning building.

National Mourning

The tragic loss of life has sent shockwaves through Turkey, with government officials expressing condolences to the victims’ families. A period of national mourning has been declared, and flags will be flown at half-mast to honor those who lost their lives in the tragedy.

A Popular Resort

Kartalkaya, located in Bolu Province, is one of Turkey’s most renowned ski resorts, attracting thousands of visitors annually. The hotel where the fire occurred is a key attraction in the area, known for its proximity to ski slopes and luxurious amenities.

Next Steps

As the nation grieves, emergency services and local authorities are focusing on supporting survivors and the families of victims. The Turkish government has promised a thorough investigation into the incident to ensure accountability and prevent future tragedies.

Further updates are expected as authorities work to uncover the full details of the catastrophic event.