A devastating fire at the Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana has claimed the lives of numerous partygoers, with authorities confirming that around 40 people died during the New Year’s Eve celebration. The blaze erupted in the upscale Swiss ski resort, which is popular among both skiers and golfers, leaving more than 100 others injured, many of them seriously.
The task of identifying the victims has begun, but officials warn it may take several days due to the severity of the burns suffered by those trapped in the inferno. Nicolas Feraud, mayor of Crans-Montana, stated that the primary focus is to accurately assign names to the deceased. He acknowledged the sensitivity of the situation, emphasizing, “The first objective is to assign names to all the bodies.”
Authorities are utilizing dental records and DNA samples to assist in the identification process. Mathias Reynard, head of government for the canton of Valais, highlighted the need for caution, noting, “All this work needs to be done because the information is so terrible and sensitive that nothing can be told to the families unless we are 100 percent sure.”
While Swiss officials have reported approximately 40 fatalities, the Italian government has indicated that the death toll may be as high as 47, based on information provided by Swiss authorities. Several foreign nationals are among the missing, including six Italians, while Antonio Tajani, Italy’s Foreign Minister, is scheduled to visit Crans-Montana to assess the situation. The Australian government has also confirmed that one of its citizens was injured in the incident.
Witnesses and survivors detailed how the fire spread rapidly through the bar, with some reports suggesting it ignited due to candles coming into contact with the ceiling in the basement. This tragic event has left the community in shock, with many residents expressing disbelief that such a disaster could occur in their town.
A vigil was held on Thursday evening, with hundreds of locals gathering near the scene to pay their respects. Many placed flowers and lit candles at a makeshift altar along the road leading to the bar, while some mourners shared their grief through tears and embraces. Kean Sarbach, a local 17-year-old, spoke to several survivors who described the panic as flames engulfed the venue.
Authorities have pledged to work around the clock to identify all victims, as the community grapples with this tragic loss. In a show of national mourning, Switzerland has ordered the national flag to be flown at half-mast for five days. As one local teenager, Elisa Sousa, reflected on her near-miss from the event, she expressed gratitude to her family for keeping her away from the bar. “God knows where I’d be now,” she remarked.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on providing support to the families affected by this tragic incident while seeking answers regarding the fire’s cause. While officials believe it to be an accident, the investigation remains ongoing, with further updates expected in the coming days.
