In the Dominican Republic’s La Altagracia province, officials are assisting foreign tourists affected by a significant fire at a luxury resort. The blaze occurred at the Viva Dominicus Beach by Wyndham resort in Bayahibe on the southeastern coast, a favored location for U.S. and global travelers. Nearly 1,700 tourists were evacuated, and an Italian national lost their life.

Amanda Santana, a hotel executive, stated, “Unfortunately, they lost their identity documents, including their passports.” Efforts are underway to collaborate with embassies and governments to help tourists return home. Hotel management is also working with the police to speed up online report filings needed by guests.

Tourists have been moved to nearby accommodations in Punta Cana and Bayahibe. General Manuel Méndez, head of the Emergency Operations Center, said authorities are probing the circumstances of the Italian national’s death. Tourism activities in the region continue unaffected.

The hotel was at 84% capacity during the incident. The Emergency Operations Center noted that the fire quickly spread, influenced by wind and the thatch roofing of some resort areas.