Footage had emerged: Unexpected statement from Emir Aras in Kartalkaya tragedy

In the trial concerning the Grand Kartal hotel fire in Bolu, where 78 people lost their lives, Emir Aras, the hotel's general manager and the son-in-law of the hotel owner, stated during the hearing that he did not request his release. Aras said, "I am very saddened by this pain that has occurred. I have many regrets and 'what-ifs.' I cannot find anything to defend myself with. I do not want my release. I believe I have faults. I cannot find a side of myself to defend, but I did not do these things intentionally."

FOOTAGE FROM THE MOMENT OF THE FIRE

On January 21, 2025, at 03:17, a fire broke out on the fourth floor of the Grand Kartal hotel due to an electric heater and engulfed the entire hotel in a short time. Emir Aras, who was on the seventh floor of the hotel at the time, left his room with his family at 03:32, 15 minutes after learning about the fire by phone. The footage reflected on security cameras captured the moments when Aras began running down the corridor while looking at his phone. This footage was also added to the case file.

Aras's behavior, which revealed that he fled without warning other guests staying at the hotel during the fire, drew significant public backlash. In the hearing held today, it was noted that Aras unexpectedly did not request his release.