Francesca Valentino, a 45-year-old mother of two, has been identified as the only victim of the devastating fire that swept through the Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach Resort in the Dominican Republic.
Valentino was visiting Bayahibe with her husband when the blaze broke out. She reportedly died from smoke inhalation as approximately 1,700 guests and staff evacuated the resort, while several others received medical treatment.
Originally from Italy, Valentino met her husband while living in the Dominican Republic, where they married and started a family before returning to Caserta. A former dancer and fashion designer, she later ran a small bed-and-breakfast.
Officials believe the fire spread rapidly because of palm roofing materials combined with strong winds. The investigation into the cause remains ongoing.
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