32 on Trial Over Deadly Grand Kartal Hotel Fire in Turkiye

32 on Trial Over Deadly Grand Kartal Hotel Fire in Turkiye
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Thirty-two individuals have gone on trial in Turkiye for a January fire at the Grand Kartal Hotel in Kartalkaya that killed 78 people, including 36 children, Arab News reported. The blaze destroyed the 12-story luxury ski resort, injuring over 130. Families allege negligence, citing a non-functioning fire alarm and ignored safety warnings.

Thirteen defendants, including hotel officials, fire department personnel, and the deputy mayor of Bolu, face up to 1,998 years in prison on charges including manslaughter with possible intent. Victims’ families accuse the hotel staff of failing to alert guests and prioritizing saving cars over people’s lives. An inspection report a month before the fire highlighted safety deficiencies, but owners allegedly dismissed it due to cost.

Authorities have been blamed for overlooking negligence and concealing evidence, including deleted camera footage. The tourism ministry and Bolu city council have shifted responsibility between each other. The trial, held at Bolu high school’s sports hall due to the large number of defendants and plaintiffs, is expected to last two weeks. Opposition leader Ozgur Ozel is set to attend.