Bali Resort Tragedy: Five Lives Lost in Elevator Accident (Watch)
Five employees of the Ayuterra Resort in Ubud, Bali, tragically lost their lives when an elevator accident occurred. This devastating incident took place when a steel lift cable snapped, causing the elevator, which runs on a steep incline, to plummet 100 meters. The victims, two men and three women, were part of the housekeeping department and had boarded the glass lift at 1pm on a Friday.
The individuals who lost their lives were identified as Ni Luh Superningsih (20), Kadek Hardiyanti (24), Kadek Yanti Pradewi (19), Sang Putu Bayu Adi Krisna (19), and Wayan Aries Setiawan (23). Their families received compensation totaling just over $4,000 from their employers, with the condition that they would not pursue legal action against the resort.
Families received financial support from the social security program BPJS Ketenagakerjaan, ranging from IDR158.2m ($16,308) to IDR166.1m ($17,122), along with approximately IDR 40m ($4,112) from the resort owners for cremation rituals and compassionate reasons. This additional support effectively prevented families from taking legal action against the company.
One family member, Nyoman Suarila, uncle of Mr. Hardiyanti, expressed acceptance of these terms, stating, “Even if we sue, our children will not return.” He emphasized their belief in karma and the importance of processing any potential fault according to the law.
Tragically, two of the staff members passed away at the scene, while the remaining three initially survived but succumbed to their injuries shortly after being transported to the hospital. A hotel cook, Ketut Suwiarta, heard screams and crashing sounds when the elevator malfunctioned. He promptly rushed to assist the victims and alerted authorities.
The elevator in question operates on a track, facilitating transportation for both tourists and employees between the upper sections of the hotel on the ridge and the resort facilities at ground level. Authorities are conducting an investigation to determine why the cable broke, assess safety maintenance practices, and evaluate the absence of backup measures in case of cable failure.
Following the tragedy, the families met with Bali’s deputy governor, Cok Ace, during Balinese Hindu ceremonies held to cleanse the site and offer prayers for the victims’ well-being. Meanwhile, all guests at the resort have been relocated to alternative accommodations while the investigation unfolds.