The death toll from the devastating fire at Türkiye's Kartalkaya ski resort in Bolu province has risen to 76, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced on Tuesday.

Speaking to reporters at the scene, Yerlikaya confirmed that search and rescue operations at the site have concluded. “Unfortunately, the number of lives lost has increased to 76. Our teams have finalized their search efforts, and investigations are ongoing,” he said.

The fire broke out in the early hours of Tuesday, rapidly spreading through the 12-story wooden hotel. Initial findings suggest the blaze began in the restaurant area on the fourth floor before engulfing the upper levels.

During the busy holiday season, the hotel was accommodating 238 guests.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan declared a national day of mourning on Wednesday in memory of the victims.

“Those who caused such a disaster, those who have shown negligence or fault, will be held accountable before the law,” Erdoğan stated during a press conference following a cabinet meeting.

Authorities have detained nine individuals in connection with the incident.

Kartalkaya, located in the Koroglu mountains about 300 kilometers east of Istanbul, is a renowned ski resort that attracts thousands of visitors during the winter season.

Investigations into the cause of the fire and potential safety lapses at the hotel are ongoing. (ILKHA)