Italian tourist dies as fire engulfs Dominican Republic resort: 1,700 evacuated

A 46-year-old Italian tourist died and nearly 1,700 people were evacuated on Saturday after a fire tore through the Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach resort in Bayahibe, Dominican Republic. Authorities confirmed the blaze broke out in the early hours, forcing guests onto the beach as flames engulfed the luxury complex. The victim, identified by the Italian foreign ministry as a woman from Rome, was overcome by carbon monoxide fumes while sheltering near the shoreline .

Firefighters from Bayahibe and nearby La Romana battled the flames for several hours before bringing them under control. Emergency services said the resort’s sprinkler system failed to activate, contributing to the rapid spread of the fire. At least 12 people were treated for smoke inhalation and minor injuries, with five hospitalised in stable condition. The Dominican civil protection agency reported that all guests had been accounted for by midday .

The blaze destroyed the resort’s main building, including guest rooms, restaurants, and recreational facilities. Video footage showed guests in swimwear running from the property as thick black smoke billowed into the sky. Local media described the scene as “infernal,” with flames visible from miles away. The Dominican government has launched an investigation into the cause, with early suspicion falling on an electrical fault or improperly stored flammable materials .

Tour operators scrambled to arrange alternative accommodations and repatriation flights for stranded visitors. The British Foreign Office issued a travel advisory urging British nationals in the area to contact their insurers and follow local guidance. The Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach, a five-star property popular with European tourists, had been fully booked for the summer season.

The incident comes amid growing concerns over fire safety in the Dominican Republic’s booming tourism sector. Last year, a fire at a Santo Domingo hotel killed three people and prompted calls for stricter enforcement of building codes. The government has pledged to review all high-rise resorts within 30 days, with unannounced inspections scheduled to begin next week.

Relatives of the Italian victim are expected to arrive in Bayahibe on Sunday to collect her remains. A memorial service for the deceased is planned at the resort’s chapel, which survived the fire. Investigators have cordoned off the site and are collecting evidence, including witness statements and surveillance footage.