"We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and relatives of the victims and wish a speedy recovery to the injured," the Polish Foreign Ministry said via social media. Polish diplomats also added that they are "deeply saddened" by the tragic fire.
The incident occurred at the Kartalkaya ski resort in the northwest of Turkey, in an 11-story building where 230 guests were staying, most of them visiting for a holiday during the ongoing winter break.
The fire initially broke out in the hotel’s restaurant and then spread to the upper floors and the roof. Some guests attempted to escape the flames by climbing out of windows using tied sheets.
Tied together bed sheets dangle from a window of the hotel that caught fire, in the Kartalkaya Ski Resort in Bolu, Turkey. At least 76 people died and 51 others were injured. The Turkish president declared 22 January as a national day of mourning for the victims of the fire. Photo: PAP/EPA/STR
Turkish authorities reported that the firefighting and rescue operations at the site have been completed. Nine people have been detained in connection with the incident, including the owner of the property.
In addition to Poland, condolences have also been sent to Turkey from other countries, including Greece and Azerbaijan.
Source: PAP/IAR/X/@ReutersWorld/@turkiyetodaycom/@AzerbaijanLhr/@PolandMFA
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