News|TourismSwiss officials face painful task of identifying victims of deadly bar fireInvestigators warn that with some of the bodies badly burned, the identification process could take weeks.
A severe fire occurred at a New Year’s Eve party in the Swiss Alps town of Crans-Montana, resulting in significant casualties. Approximately 40 individuals lost their lives, and around 115 others sustained injuries, with many in serious condition.
A severe fire occurred at a New Year’s Eve party in the Swiss Alps town of Crans-Montana, resulting in significant casualties. Approximately 40 individuals lost their lives, and around 115 others sustained injuries, with many in serious condition.
Authorities have initiated the process of victim identification, which is expected to be prolonged due to the condition of some remains. Officials are utilizing dental and DNA samples for accurate identification. The mayor of Crans-Montana, Nicolas Feraud, emphasized the importance of precision in this process.
Mathias Reynard, head of the Valais canton government, stated that no information would be shared with families until confirmations are absolute.
More than 30 victims have been transferred to specialized burn units in Zurich and Lausanne, with additional cases in Geneva. The precise number of individuals present during the incident remains undetermined, and authorities have not disclosed the number of those missing.
A severe fire occurred at a New Year’s Eve party in the Swiss Alps town of Crans-Montana, resulting in significant casualties.
Le Constellation, the site of the incident, was operating with a capacity of 300 people, with an additional 40 on its terrace. The bar is located approximately 200 km south of Bern.
Italian authorities report the death toll at 47, while France and Italy have nationals among the missing. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani plans to visit Crans-Montana, as confirmed by Italy’s ambassador to Switzerland, Gian Lorenzo Cornado.
The French Foreign Ministry has identified nine French citizens among the injured, with eight others missing.
Official Statements and Ongoing Investigation
Swiss President Guy Parmelin described the event as a significant catastrophe, ordering national flags to be flown at half-staff for five days. The fire erupted at approximately 1:30 am on Thursday at Le Constellation.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, with Canton’s chief prosecutor, Beatrice Pilloud, confirming compliance with safety regulations will be examined.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.