Dominican Republic resort fire kills 1, forces evacuation of nearly 1,700
A massive fire tore through the Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach Hotel on June 19, killing one Italian woman and injuring 9 others, forcing the evacuation of nearly 1,700 people.
On June 19, a massive fire broke out at the Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach Hotel in Bayahibe, Dominican Republic, killing one woman and forcing the evacuation of nearly 1,700 guests and staff. The victim was identified as Francesca Valentino, a 46-year-old Italian national. Three people were taken to medical facilities and six others were treated at the scene. Initial reports indicate that the fire spread rapidly due to roof structures made of palm and unfavorable wind conditions, according to the Dominican Emergency Operations Center (COE).