Status: 07.05.2022 01:27 am
There has been a serious explosion at a luxury hotel in the Cuban capital of Havana. At least 18 people died and dozens were injured. A gas leak is suspected to be the cause.
At least 18 people have been killed in a violent explosion at a five-star hotel in the Cuban capital, Havana. There are also dozens injured, reported the Cuban Presidential Office. Several people would also be missing. “Search and rescue operations are continuing at the hotel, where more people may be trapped.”
Marie-Kristin Boese, ARD Mexico City, on the explosion in a hotel in Havana
tagesschau24 9:15 p.m., 6.5.2022
President Miguel Diaz-Canel initially ruled out an assassination attempt. “Initial findings indicate that the explosion was triggered by a gas leak,” the presidential office said in another post on Twitter.
Facade completely collapsed
The explosion happened shortly after 11:00 a.m. local time. Much of the facade of the Hotel Saratoga was destroyed. The area was littered with debris and broken glass. Smoke and dust rose above the building. In addition, several vehicles were destroyed. According to information from the AFP news agency, renovation work was taking place at the hotel.
Hotel Saratoga features 96 rooms, two restaurants and a rooftop pool. Stars like Madonna and Beyoncé have stayed there in recent years.