The exact cause behind the destructive blaze that ravaged much of the Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach Resort in Bayahibe remains unidentified, as Dominican authorities confirmed on Saturday, June 20.
Juan Manuel Méndez García, head of the Emergency Operations Center (COE), stated that the fire's origin is still under investigation, with a technical committee tasked with uncovering the details.
What is known is that the fire spread with alarming speed, fueled by strong winds and the palm thatch roofs, which covered a significant portion of the resort's communal areas.
This material is traditional in Caribbean architecture, commonly used in beach umbrellas and huts, but it is highly flammable, which is why its use is banned in densely populated urban areas.
Authorities Probe Italian Tourist's Death
The tragic incident claimed the life of Francesca Valentino, a 46-year-old Italian tourist who succumbed to smoke inhalation after being taken to a medical facility in La Romana.
The Dominican Association of Tourism Press reported that Valentino may have assisted in evacuating other guests before receiving medical attention. Authorities have confirmed that an autopsy will be conducted to determine the cause of death.
The fire also resulted in injuries to nine other individuals. Three were hospitalized, while six received on-site medical care.
About 1,690 guests had to be urgently evacuated from the resort, which was operating at 84% capacity at the time.
Response from the Resort Chain
Viva Resorts by Wyndham issued an official statement clarifying that the hotel is "independently owned and operated" and would remain closed until further notice.
"We are deeply saddened by the passing of one of our guests and extend our condolences and support to her family while we await the autopsy results to determine the cause. All other guests and staff were safely evacuated."
Many evacuated tourists lost their identification documents in the fire. Amanda Santana, a hotel executive, stated, "Unfortunately, they lost their identity documents, including passports. They have been coordinating with embassies and governments for the re-entry of these guests."
Dominican authorities relocated those affected to hotels in Punta Cana and Bayahibe while coordinating their return to their home countries with foreign governments and embassies.
The adjacent hotel, Viva Wyndham Dominicus Palace, was undamaged and continued to operate normally, as did tourist activities in the Bayahibe area, according to the COE director.
Investigations into the fire's origin remain ongoing, with the appointed technical committee expected to determine both the cause of the fire and the factors contributing to its rapid spread, including construction materials and existing preventive measures at the resort.
FAQs About the Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach Resort Fire
What caused the fire at the Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach Resort?
The cause of the fire is still under investigation by Dominican authorities, with a technical committee assigned to uncover the specifics.
Who is investigating the fire's origin?
The Emergency Operations Center (COE) and a designated technical committee are responsible for investigating the fire's origin.
Were there any casualties in the fire?
Yes, the fire resulted in the death of Italian tourist Francesca Valentino and injuries to nine other individuals.
What actions were taken for the evacuated guests?
Evacuated guests were relocated to hotels in Punta Cana and Bayahibe, and efforts were made to assist them with replacing lost documents and coordinating their return home.