A fire at the Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach Hotel in Bayahibe, Dominican Republic, on June 19, 2026, resulted in one fatality and the evacuation of approximately 1,690 to 1,700 tourists. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Incident and Casualties
The fire broke out at the resort, which is located in La Altagracia province and operates in partnership with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. The deceased was identified by the Dominican Republic Foreign Ministry and local authorities as Francesca Valentino, a 46-year-old Italian woman.
According to the country's Directorate of Out-of-Hospital Emergency Care Services (DAEH), three individuals were transported to medical facilities, and six others received treatment on site. The total number of injured persons, including guests, visitors, and emergency responders, was reported as at least nine.
Response and Evacuation
Fifteen firefighting units responded to the blaze. A drone was used to spray water on smoldering structures. The fire was brought under control. Guests were relocated to the nearby Viva Wyndham Dominicus Palace, which sustained no damage.
Official Statements
The Emergency Operations Center (COE) stated that preliminary observations indicate the fire spread rapidly due to the flammable nature of palm-thatched roof structures and wind conditions. The COE also stated that tourist activities in Bayahibe and surrounding areas continue normally and safely.
"Preliminary observations indicate the fire spread rapidly due to the flammable nature of palm-thatched roof structures and wind conditions." — Emergency Operations Center (COE)
Fox News Digital reported contacting the DAEH, the COE, and Wyndham Hotels and Resorts for additional comment but did not receive responses at the time of reporting.