Massive fire destroys resort in Dominican Republic and forces evacuation of almost 1,700 tourists

Source: AP

Updated 9:54 PM CDT, June 19, 2026

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic (AP) — A large fire almost completely destroyed a luxury resort in the Dominican Republic on Friday, forcing the evacuation of almost 1,700 tourists, authorities said.

Local media reported an Italian tourist died in the fire and several other tourists required medical assistance.

The Viva Dominicus Beach by Wyndham resort is located in Bayahibe, a popular destination for U.S. and international tourists on the Dominican Republic’s southeastern coast.

Authorities reported about 1,690 tourists had to be evacuated from the resort to other hotels and nearby housing facilities because of the massive blaze.

Read more: https://apnews.com/article/dominican-republic-resort-fire-wyndham-7aa1b38d50bf0c322370d663fdfa5658