Turkish police detain four in connection to the ski resort fire that killed 66
Turkey's Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç has announced that four people, including the hotel owner, were detained in connection with the ski resort fire in central Bolu province that killed 66 people. President Erdoğan expressed condolences and vowed accountability, as experts examined the fire’s cause.
Duvar English
Turkish Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç on Jan. 21 announced that four people, including the hotel owner, were detained in connection with the deadly hotel fire at the central Bolu province's Kartalkaya Ski Resort.
He added that six prosecutors were assigned to the investigation launched by the Bolu Chief Public Prosecutor's Office.
Tunç stated on social media that the investigation into the fire, which claimed 66 lives, was being conducted "meticulously and comprehensively."
He said a five-member expert team was examining the cause of the fire and working to determine responsibility.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan also addressed the incident during the eighth Ordinary Provincial Congress of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) in the capital Ankara province.
"Unfortunately, we received heartbreaking news from Bolu. I extend my condolences to those who lost their lives and wish a swift recovery to the injured. Necessary steps are being taken, and those responsible will be held accountable," said the President.
Erdoğan, visibly affected by the tragedy, kept his remarks brief, saying, "Today, I wished to engage in a long conversation with you. But our pain is immense."
The fire erupted on Jan. 21 at 3.27 a.m. local time at Grand Kartal Hotel's restaurant section on the 4th floor and spread to the upper floors.
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced that the fire left 66 dead and 51 injured. Health Minister Kemal Memişoğlu said one injured was under critical condition, while 17 people were discharged from the hospital.
The authorities also warned that the fire might collapse the mostly wooden hotel.