SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, June 20 (Our Florida Times) — A massive fire at the Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach Hotel in Bayahibe, Dominican Republic, left one tourist dead Friday and forced the evacuation of 1,690 guests, authorities said.
The Dominican Republic Directorate of Out-of-Hospital Emergency Services identified the person who died as Francesca Valentino, a 46-year-old Italian national. Officials said at least nine other people were treated for injuries, and three were taken to off-site medical facilities.
The Dominican Republic Emergency Operations Center said the fire was contained and that guests were moved to alternative accommodations. The agency said tourism activity in Bayahibe and the surrounding area was not disrupted.
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts said hotel teams evacuated guests and staff and that the property will remain closed until further notice. The company also said the hotel operates independently.
Authorities said the fire spread quickly because of wind and the combustible nature of thatched or palm roof structures. Officials also said the nearby Viva Wyndham Dominicus Palace was not damaged and remained open.
