A massive fire broke out early on June 19 at the Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach Hotel in Bayahibe, Dominican Republic, killing one guest and forcing the evacuation of nearly 1,700 people. [1, 2, 3, 4]
The victim was identified as 46-year-old Italian tourist Francesca Valentino. [1, 2, 3, 4] Rescue workers evacuated approximately 1,690 guests and staff members, relocating them to nearby hotels. [2, 4] Emergency services treated nine people for injuries, with three hospitalized and six others treated at the scene. [1, 2, 3]
The fire spread quickly due to wind and the flammable palm and thatch roofing used on some resort buildings, according to the Dominican Republic Emergency Operations Center (COE). They said, "Preliminary observations indicate that the fire spread rapidly due to the flammable nature of parts of the roof structures made of palm, as well as wind conditions." [4]
Drone and aerial footage showed thick black smoke and extensive fire damage across multiple buildings at the resort. [1, 2, 3, 4] Nearby, the Viva Wyndham Dominicus Palace hotel was not affected by the blaze. [3, 4]
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. [1, 2, 3, 4] Despite the incident, the COE confirmed that "tourist activities in Bayahibe and the surrounding area remain unaffected and continue to take place safely and as normal." [4]
The Italian embassy is assisting about 285 Italian tourists who were affected, providing emergency travel documents and arranging flights. [1]
Authorities brought the fire under control after the evacuation and launched a formal investigation. Efforts are ongoing to support displaced guests and assess the damage caused by the fire. [1, 2, 3, 4]
