One Killed in Large Fire at Luxury Dominican Republic Resort

A devastating fire swept through the Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach, a four-star luxury resort in Bayahibe, Dominican Republic, on Friday, resulting in one fatality and multiple injuries. The blaze erupted around 11 a.m. in the popular tourist destination located in the La Altagracia province on the island's southeastern coast.

Juan Manuel Mendez, head of the Dominican Republic's Emergency Operations Center, confirmed at a news conference that one person died at the scene. At least nine others sustained injuries, with three requiring transport to local hospitals and six treated on-site. An emergency official had earlier told CBS News that the deceased was an Italian woman.

Cellphone footage captured the rapid spread of the fire, showing thatch-roof structures engulfed in flames as smoke billowed into the air. Firefighters from La Romana responded, battling the intense blaze. Approximately 1,690 guests staying at the resort were evacuated to nearby hotels and housing facilities. Viva Resorts by Wyndham stated they are cooperating with authorities and gathering facts regarding the incident.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the fire likely spread quickly due to the resort's roof, which included combustible cane material, combined with windy conditions. The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation by the relevant agencies.

“

At this time, we are actively gathering the facts regarding the incident and coordinating with the appropriate authorities and on-site teams. As this process is ongoing, we will not be providing comment at this time.