A heartbreaking fire tore through a popular ski resort hotel in northwestern Turkey early Tuesday, claiming the lives of 66 people and leaving 51 others injured. The blaze broke out at the Kartalkaya resort in Bolu province, turning a winter getaway into a scene of chaos and tragedy. Guests at the 12-story hotel faced unimaginable terror as flames engulfed the building. Many were forced to jump from windows to escape the smoke and fire. Witnesses described harrowing scenes of people using bed sheets to lower themselves to safety, while others screamed for help from the upper floors. Sadly, two victims died after leaping from the building in a panic. The fire broke out around 3:27 a.m. local time, with emergency crews arriving nearly an hour later. The hotel’s cliffside location made it difficult for firefighters to control the flames. Authorities have launched an investigation, and at least four people have been detained in connection with the incident. Eyewitnesses shared chilling accounts of the disaster. One guest mentioned the hotel’s fire detection system failed to activate, leaving occupants unaware of the danger until it was too late. “My wife smelled the burning… We tried to go upstairs but couldn’t, there were flames,” said Atakan Yelkovan, a guest staying on the third floor. “People on the upper floors were screaming.” The Kartalkaya resort is a favorite spot for winter vacations, especially during school holidays. At the time of the fire, 234 guests were staying at the hotel. Emergency teams sent 30 fire trucks and 28 ambulances to the scene, evacuating nearby hotels as a precaution. This tragic event has left the nation in mourning, with officials calling it a profound loss. As investigations continue, questions linger about safety measures and response times. Our hearts go out to the victims and their families during this devastating time.