A massive fire tore through a beachfront resort in the Dominican Republic's popular tourist destination of Bayahibe, killing one person and forcing the evacuation of nearly 1,700 guests and staff, Reuters reported citing authorities on Friday.
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The victim was identified as Francesca Valentino, a 46-year-old Italian tourist, who died in the blaze at the Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach Hotel, according to the DAEH emergency service.
Three people were taken to medical facilities, while six others, including hotel guests, visitors and emergency responders, received treatment at the scene.
Videos circulating on local media showed thick black smoke rising above the Caribbean coastline as flames engulfed the resort's palm-thatched roof. Emergency crews battled the fire for hours before bringing it under control.
