THE fatalities toll from an explosion at a luxury hotel in Havana last month has risen to 47, after a hospitalised woman died from her injuries, the Cuban government said yesterday.

The Health Ministry announced the death of Vanesa Sierra Suris, 44, who was severely injured in the May 6 blast at the Saratoga Hotel investigators believe was caused by a gas leak.

Ninety-nine people were left with injuries from the explosion, of whom one remains in hospital, said the ministry.

The blast tore off large parts of the hotel’s facade, blew out windows and destroyed cars parked outside.

The hotel was known for having hosted celebrities such as Madonna, Beyonce and Mick Jagger.

It was preparing for a grand reopening after renovation work done during two years of coronavirus closure. – AFP, June 16, 2022.