Italian tourist killed, nearly 1,700 evacuated as fire engulfs Dominican Republic beach resort
A 46-year-old Italian woman died from smoke inhalation and close to 1,700 guests were evacuated when a fire swept through the Viva Dominicus Beach by Wyndham resort in Bayahibe, Dominican Republic, on Friday.
What happened
A large fire broke out at the Viva Dominicus Beach by Wyndham resort, a beachfront complex in Bayahibe on the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic, on Friday 19 June. Authorities confirmed that nearly 1,700 tourists were evacuated as thick black smoke rose over the Caribbean shoreline. Videos shared by local media showed flames consuming large sections of the resort, including its palm-thatch roof.
Casualties and injuries
Francesca Valentino, a 46-year-old Italian tourist from Caserta, died in the fire. The Emergency Operations Center (COE) said the cause of death was smoke inhalation. Three other people were taken to hospital and six more received first aid on site. Among those requiring medical attention were hotel guests, other visitors, and emergency responders.
The fire spread quickly, due to the flammable nature of parts of the roof and the winds.
Response and current status
Firefighters brought the blaze under control and an investigation into its cause is underway. Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, which operates over 8,400 franchised properties worldwide, did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Reuters. The neighbouring Viva Wyndham Dominicus Palace resort was not damaged and remains open, while evacuated guests were relocated to nearby accommodations.
Dominican Republic tourism
Tourist activities in Bayahibe and the surrounding area are continuing normally, the COE stated. The Dominican Republic is the most popular tourist destination in the Caribbean, attracting more than 5.6 million visitors in the first five months of this year.
