Fire sweeps Dominican resort, 1,700 tourists evacuated

A devastating fire swept through a luxury beach resort in the Dominican Republic on Friday, forcing the evacuation of nearly 1,700 guests, according to authorities.

Local reports said that an Italian tourist lost his life in the incident, while several others received medical treatment.

The affected property, Viva Dominicus Beach by Wyndham, is situated in Bayahibe, a well-known tourist destination on the country's southeastern coast that attracts visitors from the United States and around the world.

Officials said approximately 1,690 tourists were relocated to nearby hotels and accommodation facilities after the massive blaze engulfed much of the resort.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire. The country's emergency management agency said strong winds and sections of the resort's thatched roof likely contributed to the rapid spread of the flames.

Meanwhile, a nearby sister property, Viva Wyndham Dominicus Palace, was not affected by the fire and continued operating normally.