The tragic death of Carolina Canales, a 24-year-old Brazilian doctor, has sent shockwaves across both Brazil and the international community following a devastating hotel fire on January 1, 2023, at The Ember Hotel in Bangkok, Thailand. The fire claimed Carolina's life, as well as the lives of two other tourists; one from the United States and another from Ukraine, who succumbed to their injuries shortly after being transported to the hospital.
The incident unfolded during the early hours of the New Year when guests at the hotel were unexpectedly awakened by smoke and flames. Carolina's fiancé, Fernando Ressurreição, who was staying with her at the hotel, shared his harrowing experience on social media, recalling how they were eagerly preparing to return to Brazil to celebrate their achievements and the New Year with family. “We felt on top of the world; ready to return to our families and celebrate our accomplishments and the New Year... but, as life is uncertain, we were startled awake by hell itself,” he wrote, expressing his disbelief over the loss.
Fernando also revealed the deep emotional agony he now endures, stating, “I live in a constant nightmare without my love by my side... I will strive to find a reason and way to survive, always carrying a piece of her love.” His poignant reflections hint at the couple’s plans and shared dreams, making the tragedy even more heartbreaking.
The fire began on the fifth floor of The Ember Hotel, where 75 guests were staying at the time. Many were forced to flee to the rooftop for safety as the flames engulfed the building. Rescue operations managed to save 34 individuals, but many faced dire circumstances, prompting quick transports to nearby hospitals.
Fernando, attempting to escape the flames, sustained injuries, including a broken foot after leaping through a hotel window. He reported feeling faint and breaking the window to escape, scaling down to the third floor before jumping to the ground, which resulted in his leg injury. Tragically, Carolina was unable to escape; she reportedly entered room 511, where the fire likely started, only to succumb to smoke inhalation.
The outpouring of grief was palpable at Carolina's memorial service, held on January 4, 2023, at Igreja Rosa Mística, Mangabeiras, Brazil. Family and friends gathered to pay their respects, sharing heart-wrenching memories of Carolina, who was described as vibrant, caring, and dedicated to her profession. The church was filled beyond capacity as attendees expressed their deep sorrow and loss.
Brazil's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through the Brazilian Embassy in Bangkok, has been providing consular assistance to the victims’ families, maintaining close communication with local authorities as the investigation develops.
The Thai police have launched inquiries to determine the cause of the inferno, which has left many questioning safety protocols and procedures at the hotel. The investigation is expected to shed light on the events leading up to this tragic incident, and authorities are urged to review safety measures to prevent future occurrences.
This tragic event not only highlights the personal loss felt by Fernando and the families of the deceased but also raises discussions about hotel safety standards for tourists. Carolina’s legacy, defined by her caring nature and dedication as a physician, will always be remembered by those who loved her.
Fernando's heart-wrenching farewell to his fiancé ignites more than grief; it symbolizes the heartbreak and confusion so many feel after such unexpected tragedy. He concluded his post with, “This is our love story, of someone who heard ‘yes’ a thousand times, and was the happiest man alive.” His enduring love for Carolina will surely resonate as he navigates through life without her.