22 People Killed in Explosion at Hotel in Cuba

An explosion at the Saratoga hotel in Havana has claimed the lives of 22 individuals, including one child. A total of 64 people have been hospitalized, 14 of whom are children, according to reports from RIA Novosti, citing the Cuban presidential administration.

The explosion occurred on Friday morning, causing the facade of the building to be destroyed up to the fifth floor, with damage also reported to neighboring structures. Authorities have labeled the incident as a tragic accident, indicating that the gas equipment and hotel operators had the necessary permits and licenses.

The hotel, located across from the Capitol building in Havana, was not occupied and was scheduled to open on May 10. According to the Ministry of Tourism, there were no foreign nationals among those affected.