Bolu, Turkey – A devastating fire engulfed the Grand Kartal Hotel in Turkey’s northwestern Bolu province, leaving at least 76 people dead and dozens injured.

The blaze broke out in the early hours of Tuesday at the renowned Kartalkaya ski resort, where the hotel was accommodating 248 registered guests. Authorities have launched an investigation into the tragic incident, which has shocked the nation.

Fire Erupts in Hotel Restaurant, Spreads Rapidly

The fire was first reported at 3:27 a.m. local time, with initial reports indicating that it started in the restaurant section of the 12-story hotel.

Due to the building’s location on a cliffside, evacuation efforts proved difficult, leading to chaotic scenes as guests attempted to flee the inferno.

Emergency services were alerted, and the fire department arrived at the scene at 4:15 a.m. However, the flames had already spread extensively, making rescue operations challenging.

Eyewitness accounts described guests resorting to desperate measures, including tying bed sheets together to escape from upper floors.

Investigation Launched, Nine Detained

The Turkish government has launched an extensive probe into the incident, with authorities detaining nine individuals for questioning, including the hotel owner.

Preliminary findings suggest that the exterior of the hotel, which was covered in wooden cladding, may have contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.

Further concerns have been raised regarding the hotel’s fire detection system, which reportedly failed to activate during the emergency.

Turkish Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy stated that the hotel had undergone fire safety inspections in 2021 and 2024. “The fire department did not report any negative findings in either inspection,” Ersoy said, addressing concerns over safety lapses.

Search for Survivors and Rising Death Toll

Rescue teams worked tirelessly to evacuate guests and staff trapped inside the burning structure. While many managed to escape, authorities fear the death toll could rise further as search operations continue.

Several individuals remain unaccounted for, and dozens have been hospitalized with severe burns and smoke inhalation injuries.

Families of the victims have begun gathering at local hospitals, anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones. The Turkish Red Crescent has been providing assistance to survivors, offering emergency medical aid and temporary shelter.

Calls for Accountability and Improved Safety Regulations

The disaster has sparked widespread public outrage, with many questioning the adequacy of fire safety measures in the hospitality sector.

Experts have urged the government to re-evaluate regulations, particularly concerning the use of flammable materials in hotel construction.

As investigations continue, authorities have pledged to hold those responsible accountable. Meanwhile, the nation mourns the loss of lives in what has become one of Turkey’s deadliest hotel fires in recent history.

Government Response and Support for Victims

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and vowed a thorough investigation.

The Turkish government has promised financial aid to affected families and support for those who lost their homes and belongings in the disaster.

With rescue operations still underway, authorities remain focused on recovering victims and determining the full extent of the tragedy.

The coming days are expected to bring further revelations regarding the cause of the fire and the potential safety lapses that led to such a catastrophic loss of life.

This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members