Kartalkaya Hotel Fire Case: Detentions Extended as Families Demand Broader Accountability
KARTALKOYA, Türkiye - Detentions were extended for defendants in the case stemming from the 2023 fire at the Grand Kartal Hotel in Kartalkaya, a decision welcomed by families of the victims who are seeking a precedent-setting legal outcome. The ruling came during a recent hearing focused on the disaster that claimed multiple lives and impacted nearly two hundred families, according to statements made by those affected.
The fire, described by one bereaved father as a “massacre,” resulted in the deaths of Ugur Tan Dogan, his son Mert Dogan, his bride Duygu Dogan, and their grandchildren Nature and Blue Dogan. Rıfat Doğan lost his wife and daughter in the blaze. Families are not only pursuing justice for those directly responsible but are also calling for a wider examination into the roles of relevant institutions and organizations.
Ugur Tan dogan’s father stated they lost four relatives in the fire and expressed hope the court’s proceedings will establish a landmark case both within Türkiye and internationally. He also indicated concerns regarding the involvement of the Ministry of Culture and Social Security.
Zeynep Kotan, a spokesperson for the “We do not have any other lives” platform, who also lost her son in the fire, criticized the prosecutor’s opinion and argued that the expert report lacks crucial information regarding the involvement of key institutions.
Rıfat Doğan emphasized the families’ unwavering commitment to the case, stating, “We will struggle as much as we breathe until the end of our life.” The continuation of detentions was seen as a positive step, but families are focused on the inclusion of additional defendants and newly presented evidence in the ongoing investigation.
Visuals for this report were provided by UAV and DHA.
