A devastating fire at the Grand Kartal Hotel in Turkey’s Kartalkaya ski resort has claimed the lives of at least 79 people, including many children and entire families. The blaze erupted in the early hours of January 22, 2025, trapping guests as they slept and leading to desperate attempts to escape the flames.

Key Takeaways

  • Death Toll: At least 79 confirmed dead, with many victims being children and families.
  • Injuries: 51 people injured, with some still receiving treatment.
  • Investigation: 11 individuals detained, including hotel management and local officials.
  • Fire Safety Concerns: Reports indicate failures in fire alarm systems and safety measures.

Timeline Of The Incident

  • 3:27 AM: Fire breaks out in the restaurant area of the 12-story hotel.
  • 4:15 AM: Emergency services arrive on the scene, nearly an hour after the fire started.
  • January 22: Death toll rises to 79 as forensic teams identify victims.

Eyewitness Accounts

Survivors described a scene of chaos and panic as the fire spread rapidly. Many reported that the fire alarms did not activate, and some guests attempted to escape by tying bedsheets together to lower themselves from windows. Eyewitnesses recounted hearing screams and the smell of smoke long before the alarms went off.

Victims’ Stories

Among the deceased were entire families, including:

  • The Gรผltekin Family: Bilal Gรผltekin, his wife Zehra Sena, and their three children.
  • Nedim Tรผrkmen: A journalist, along with his wife and daughters.
  • Young Athletes and Students: Several students from prestigious schools were also among the victims.

Government Response

In the wake of the tragedy, President Recep Tayyip ErdoฤŸan declared a day of national mourning. He attended funerals for victims and expressed condolences to grieving families. The government has launched an investigation into the fire, leading to the detention of 11 individuals, including the hotel owner and local officials responsible for fire safety inspections.

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Fire Safety Failures

Initial reports suggest that the hotel lacked adequate fire safety measures. Survivors indicated that the fire detection system failed to operate, and there were insufficient escape routes. Experts have raised concerns about the building’s wooden cladding, which may have contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.

Community Mourning

The nation is in mourning as families gather to honor the victims. Flags have been lowered to half-mast, and memorial services are being held across Turkey. The tragedy has sparked outrage over potential negligence and calls for accountability regarding fire safety regulations in hotels.

As investigations continue, the focus remains on ensuring that such a disaster does not happen again, with many demanding stricter enforcement of safety standards in public accommodations.

Sources

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Emre Emehet
Emre Emehet
Emre Emehet is a 45-year-old journalist from the Balkans, best known for his dedication to telling stories that reflect the everyday lives of people in his region. Growing up in a small town in northern Bosnia, Emre always had an interest in local history and storytelling, which drew him to pursue a degree in journalism and communications at the University of Sarajevo. He wasnโ€™t the top of his class, but his professors admired his practical approach and natural curiosity, qualities that would later define his career.

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