Viva Resorts, a popular hotel chain, has released a statement in response to the tragic incident that occurred at a hotel in the Dominican Republic over the weekend.
A fire erupted at the Viva Dominicus Beach by Wyndham located in Bayahibe on the southeast coast of the Caribbean country during the early hours of Friday. This resort is well-known among US and international tourists.
Tragically, an Italian tourist, identified as Francesca Valentino, aged 46, lost her life in the incident. Nearly 1,700 tourists were evacuated following a major fire that swept through the resort. The Dominican Republic’s Emergency Operations Centre mentioned that the fire rapidly spread, exacerbated by strong winds and the hotel’s partially thatched roof. The fire has been contained, and an investigation is underway to determine its cause.
Local media shared videos showing thick smoke rising over the coastline as the flames engulfed the resort.
In response to the fire incident at the Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach Hotel, Viva Resorts issued a statement. A spokesperson mentioned on Facebook that, “Viva Dominicus Beach Hotel experienced a fire yesterday. The Emergency Operations Centre (COE) collaborated with various regional fire departments to control the fire. Our deepest condolences go out to the family of the deceased guest as we await autopsy results for further information.
“All guests and staff were safely evacuated. The hotel, which is independently managed, is currently closed and will remain so until further notice. For any queries from current or future guests, please contact +1 877 997 1877.”
The Dominican Republic is a top tourist destination in the Caribbean, attracting nearly 11.7 million international visitors in 2025, as reported by the tourism ministry.
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