A devastating fire broke out early Tuesday at the 12-story Grand Kartal hotel in northwestern Turkey, killing at least 76 people, including two who jumped to escape the flames, officials said. The blaze, which occurred during a school holiday at the popular ski resort of Kartalkaya in Bolu province, also left 51 others injured.
The fire broke out around 3:27 a.m. at the hotel, which was packed with guests during the start of the two-week winter school break. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed that 45 of the victims had been identified, with recovery efforts continuing for the remaining bodies. “We are heartbroken. Those responsible will face justice,” Yerlikaya said.
Survivors described scenes of chaos, with guests on the upper floors attempting to escape, some using sheets to climb down or jumping from windows. “People were screaming, some tried to jump,” said Atakan Yelkovan, a guest on the third floor.
The hotel had 238 registered guests at the time. Health Minister Kemal Memisoglu reported that one person was in serious condition, while 17 others were treated and released. Emergency teams are set to conduct a final search for victims.