Dominican journalist Yolaine Díaz died early Monday morning after being trapped in a fire in an apartment building in New York. The former fashion and beauty editor of People en Español, 48, passed away along with her mother, Ana Mirtha Lantigua, 73, and her dog in the Inwood neighborhood in Upper Manhattan.
The fire started on the first floor of the building. According to the New York City Fire Department (FDNY), the flames quickly spread through the interior stairwell, engulfing the six-story structure until reaching the roof.
People en Español reported that the mother and daughter tried to escape through the emergency stairs, but dense smoke hindered their progress, as reported by Clarín, which also states that they were found embracing. Yolaine Díaz also had a chihuahua, Bella, who was found in her owner's arms after the devastating fire.
The journalist's stepfather, who was also in the building when the fire broke out, managed to survive, as reported by the mentioned media outlet.
In addition to Díaz and her mother, authorities confirmed the identity of a third fatality, while 14 other people were injured.
Born in Bonao, Dominican Republic, Yolaine Díaz moved to New York during her adolescence. She began her career at People en Español in 2004 as a fact-checker before becoming the digital editor for fashion and beauty at the renowned publication. She was currently contributing to the magazine as well as other media outlets such as Ebony, Us Weekly, and TVNotas, as reported by Clarín.
The death of Yolaine Díaz has deeply impacted the People en Español editorial team, who dedicated a post to her on Instagram. "Today we not only say goodbye to a journalist but to someone who was family, part of our history. A lover of fashion and her unique style, Yolaine left deep marks with her voice, her laughter, and her warmth. Her dedication and constant fight against animal abuse will remain with us forever."