SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, June 20 (Our Florida Times) — A fire at the Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach Hotel in Bayahibe, Dominican Republic, killed one tourist and forced the evacuation of 1,690 people, authorities said Friday. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts said the resort will remain closed until further notice.
The Dominican Republic Directorate of Out-of-Hospital Emergency Services identified the person who died as Francesca Valentino, a 46-year-old Italian tourist. The agency 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 blaze was contained and that guests were moved to alternative accommodations. The agency also said tourism activity in Bayahibe and the surrounding area remained unaffected.
Authorities said wind and the flammable palm roof structures helped the fire spread quickly. The nearby Viva Wyndham Dominicus Palace was not damaged and was operating normally, according to the emergency response authorities.
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts said hotel teams evacuated guests and staff and that the property operates independently. The company extended condolences to Valentino’s family and said it was awaiting the results of an autopsy.
