Image Credit: Grand Kartal

Bolu, Turkey — A horrifying situation is unfolding in Turkey, as a fire at a popular ski resort has killed numerous vacationers.

CNN reports that in the middle of the evening on January 21st, a fire started at the Grand Kartal at the Kartalkaya ski resort. Due to one side of the building being next to a rock cliff, firefighters’ efforts to fan the flames were a significant challenge. While it hasn’t been confirmed yet, the building appears to have suffered severe damage, and officials fear that it could collapse.

Current estimates have the death toll to be at least 79 people, with 51 individuals being injured. It’s believed that a few of the victims attempted to jump to escape the flames. The fire happened in the middle of Turkey’s school vacation period, meaning that there were a lot of guests and students staying at the hotel. On the night of the fire, it’s estimated that 234 people were staying at the lodge.

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. However, it’s believed that the fire started in a restaurant at the hotel. At least eleven individuals have been detained as part of an investigation by the Turkish government, including the owner of the Grand Kartal.

We here at Unofficial Networks send our thoughts and prayers to the families of the victims during this heartbreaking time. We’ll keep you posted on the latest updates regarding this situation.

A trail map of the Kartalkaya Ski Center.

Image/Video Credits: Grand Kartal, Reuters ( IHA News), Kartalkaya Ski Center

Update 1/22: Numbers regarding the death toll and individuals arrested have been update as more details have emerged regarding this tragedy.

Don't miss out!

Get the latest snow and mountain lifestyle news and entertainment delivered to your inbox.

This field is hidden when viewing the form
Newsletters
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Have any post ideas or corrections? Reach out to me: ian@unofficialnetworks.com.