A devastating fire broke out at the Grand Kartal Hotel in Kartalkaya, Turkey, resulting in at least 79 deaths and dozens injured. The tragedy unfolded as smoke engulfed the hotel, with guests facing harrowing choices. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and despair, while authorities launched an investigation into the cause of the fire, believed to have started in the restaurant area. In response to the disaster, the nation observed a day of mourning, with flags at half-staff, as the impact of this incident resonated deeply across Turkey.
"There was no one around. They were calling for firefighters. They were breaking the windows. Some could no longer stand the smoke and flames, and they jumped."
"It was awful. We were terrified. People were screaming. The cries of children especially affected us. We wanted to help but there was nothing we could do."
"Authorities have assigned six prosecutors to investigate the cause of the fire, which appeared to have started at the restaurant section on the fourth floor."
"Flags at government buildings and Turkish diplomatic missions abroad were lowered to half-staff as the nation shocked by the disaster observed a day of mourning for the victims."
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