A severe accident at the Gudauri ski resort in Georgia resulted in the death of twelve individuals on the evening of December 13, 2024, marking it as one of the region’s most fatal incidents in recent memory.
As per the Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs, the victims, comprised of eleven foreign nationals and one Georgian, succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning in their sleeping areas located above an Indian restaurant where they were working.
The disaster was triggered by the indoor usage of an oil-powered generator in an enclosed area close to the bedrooms following a power cut. The authorities stated that the generator’s operation led to a perilous accumulation of carbon monoxide, an invisible, scentless gas that can cause death within minutes in areas without proper ventilation.
A probe has started to evaluate if negligence was a factor in the tragedy, with potential charges for negligent manslaughter. Georgian legislation indicates that such charges, in events involving multiple deaths, could lead to imprisonment ranging from three to five years. Forensic teams are collecting evidence and conducting interviews as part of the ongoing investigation.
Specialists are emphasizing the severe risks associated with incorrect generator usage, especially in closed spaces. Carbon monoxide, often referred to as a “silent killer,” is indiscernible without specialized detectors, highlighting the critical need for adhering to safety guidelines when operating generators.
Located in the Greater Caucasus Mountains, about 75 miles north of Tbilisi, Gudauri is Georgia’s most expansive and highest ski resort. At an altitude of 7,200 feet, the resort is a popular spot for international ski and snowboard enthusiasts. Its historical importance traces back to the 19th century when it was a trading post along the Georgian Military Road, a crucial route linking Russia and Georgia.
The authorities are withholding the victims’ identities until their families have been informed. This episode has cast a somber pall over Gudauri, a resort that is typically renowned for its lively winter sports scene.