Italian television star Francesca Valentino has died at the age of 45 in a fire that engulfed the Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach hotel in the southeastern resort of Bayahíbe, Dominican Republic.
Evacuation and Casualties
Approximately 1,700 guests were evacuated from the resort as the blaze broke out. Three people were taken to medical centres, while another six received treatment on site.
Francesca Valentino's Career
Valentino, who would have turned 46 in two months, was known for her appearances on Italian television, including the show Mollo Tutto e Cambio Vita (I'm quitting everything and changing my life) on Sky Uno. On the programme, she had announced plans to move to the Dominican Republic, but according to La Repubblica, she was at the resort on holiday and still living in Italy.
Official Statements
The Dominican Republic's Emergency Operations Center (COE) confirmed that tourist activities in Bayahíbe and surrounding areas remain unaffected and continue safely as normal. Director Juan Manuel Mendez stated: "The causes that caused the fire remain under investigation, and it will be the relevant technical commission in charge of establishing them once the emergency and evaluation work on site are completed."
A spokesperson for Wyndham Hotels and Resorts said the property had been closed until further notice. In a statement, they said: "Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach Hotel experienced a fire yesterday. The Emergency Operations Centre (COE), in conjunction with various regional fire departments, contained the fire. Hotel teams safely evacuated guests and staff. However, we are saddened that one guest perished, and we send our thoughts to the family while we await autopsy results to determine the cause. At this time, the hotel, which is independently owned and operated, is closed and will remain so until further notice."
Firefighting Efforts
The fire was brought under control with the assistance of helicopters deployed to help stop the flames. An investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.
