In a heartbreaking incident, an Olympic skier and his father tragically lost their lives in a fire that broke out at a closed hotel in Turkey.
The blaze occurred at the Kervansaray Hotel in Uludag, Bursa province, claiming the lives of Berkin Usta, 25, and his 57-year-old father, Yahya Usta.
Remembering a Sporting Icon
Berkin was not just an Olympic skier who competed in the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympic Games; he was also the creative force behind the team Skicraft.
His father, Yahya, had dedicated much of his life to the sport as the president of the Turkish Ski and Snowboard Teachers Association, leaving a lasting legacy in the skiing community.
Moments Before Tragedy
Just hours before the incident, Berkin shared a soothing video on his Instagram Stories, featuring a cozy log fire.
His post has since become a poignant reminder of the passion and calm he carried with him, as tributes and heartfelt messages poured in from all over in the wake of his untimely passing.
Community and Official Reactions
The tragedy has deeply affected the nation.
Sports Minister Osman Askin Bak expressed his sorrow, stating, “I learned with deep sorrow that our national athlete Berkin Usta and his father Yahya Usta lost their lives in the fire that broke out in the hotel in Uludag.”
The loss has ignited an outpouring of support and remembrance from fans and fellow athletes alike.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have promptly launched an investigation into the fire.
This incident comes just two months after another tragic event where a fire in a 12-story ski resort hotel in northwestern Turkey resulted in 79 deaths.
Notably, while Yahya Usta’s wife was reportedly in the Bursa hotel at the time, she has not been reported among the casualties.
Details of the Incident
The fire started early in the morning, at 5:30 a.m., when the hotel, already closed to guests, had 12 staff members on site.
Although the blaze was contained by fire crews within two hours, the upper floors of the six-story hotel were severely damaged.
According to Bursa Mayor Mustafa Bozbey, the fire originated in the cafeteria.
Reports also suggest that deficiencies found during inspections might have played a role, with sparks from a barbecue grill possibly igniting a piece of plastic on the hotel veranda.
Reflecting on the Tragedy
The 30-year-old hotel had been shut down in early January after its accommodation permit was canceled.
This tragic event not only highlights a devastating loss of life but also raises concerns about safety and inspection standards in the hospitality industry, especially in regions frequented by winter sports enthusiasts.
What’s next remains uncertain as the investigation continues, with authorities determined to uncover the full circumstances behind this heartbreaking fire.