A Dominican Republic resort fire killed one tourist and forced nearly 1,700 guests to evacuate Friday in Bayahibe, officials said. The blaze hit the Viva Dominicus Beach by Wyndham resort, a popular beachfront destination on the country’s southeastern coast. As a result, emergency crews launched a large response across the tourism area.
Dominican Republic Resort Fire Hits Bayahibe Hotel
The fire broke out June 19 at Viva Dominicus Beach by Wyndham in Bayahibe, located in La Altagracia province. Bayahibe draws many visitors because of its beaches, resorts and access to Caribbean excursions.
The Dominican Republic’s Emergency Operations Center, known as COE, said emergency units responded during the early hours of the incident. Firefighters, local agencies and national response teams worked together to control the blaze.
Authorities evacuated about 1,690 guests from the hotel. Then, response teams moved them to nearby hotels and other prepared locations.
The Associated Press reported that the fire almost completely destroyed the luxury resort. In addition, the report said the property belongs to the Viva Wyndham brand.
One Tourist Killed and Others Treated
Officials said a 46-year-old woman from Italy died in the fire. ABC News reported that the Dominican Republic Foreign Ministry confirmed her death.
Reuters, cited by ABC Australia, identified the woman as Francesca Valentino. The report said medical teams took three people to medical facilities. They also treated six others at the site.
Authorities have not released a final injury total. However, the COE said support teams assisted guests and others affected by the emergency.
Images and videos from the area showed heavy smoke rising over the coastline. Meanwhile, flames spread across thatched-roof structures at the beachfront resort.
Cause of Bayahibe Resort Fire Remains Under Investigation
Officials have not announced the cause of the fire. The COE said a technical commission will determine the cause after crews finish emergency work and site evaluations.
Preliminary observations pointed to several factors that may have helped the fire spread. For example, officials said wind conditions and palm-made roofing materials appeared to fuel the rapid movement of the flames.
The COE said regional fire departments and national response agencies joined the operation. In addition, Central Romana Corporation and Punta Cana International Airport provided specialized fire-response support.
Together, those groups helped strengthen the effort to control the fire and protect guests.
Guests Relocated as Nearby Resort Remains Open
The COE said several hotels and tourism groups activated contingency plans after the fire. The Ministry of Tourism, the La Romana-Bayahibe tourism cluster and local hotels helped coordinate guest relocation.
Some guests moved to the nearby Viva Wyndham Dominicus Palace. Others relocated to hotels in Bayahibe, Miches and nearby properties, including Catalonia and Sunscape hotels, according to the COE.
Officials said the fire did not damage the Viva Wyndham Dominicus Palace. Still, staff moved guests there to safe and ventilated areas as a precaution.
Afterward, the COE said the Dominicus Palace continued operating normally.
Tourism Operations Continue in the Area
Bayahibe remains one of the Dominican Republic’s best-known beach destinations. The area attracts travelers from the United States, Latin America, Europe and other international markets.
The COE said tourism activities in Bayahibe and nearby areas continue safely and normally after the fire. Even so, the incident may concern travelers with upcoming stays at the affected property.
The resort’s condition, guest accommodations and future reopening plans may depend on the official investigation and damage assessment. According to ABC Australia, Wyndham Hotels and Resorts had not immediately responded to media requests for comment.
For travelers with reservations, the key step is to contact the booking provider, airline or hotel operator directly for updated guidance. The fire remains under investigation, and officials are expected to release more information after the technical review.