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Dozens Dead and Hundreds Injured in Horrific Fire at Swiss Resort Crans-Montana
Swiss authorities reported that a massive fire broke out in a crowded bar at the upscale ski resort of Crans-Montana in southern Switzerland during New Year’s celebrations, resulting in approximately 40 fatalities and injuring over 115 others, many in critical condition, marking one of the worst tragedies the country has seen in recent times.
Frédéric Guislair, chief of the Valais canton police, stated at a press conference that the casualty figures are preliminary and may change as rescue operations continue. He emphasized that the priority now lies in identifying the victims to facilitate the swift return of their bodies to their families.
The fire erupted at the “Le Constellation” bar, which was packed with patrons around 1:30 AM local time, amidst New Year festivities, creating a hazardous environment that allowed the flames to spread rapidly within the establishment.
The exact cause of the fire remains unclear, with authorities confirming that investigations are ongoing and it is too early to determine the reason behind the incident, although the possibility of foul play or terrorism has been ruled out in the early stages of the investigation.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and chaos as customers trapped inside the bar attempted to break windows to escape, while others rushed into the street suffering from severe burns.
The incident has profoundly affected the local community and the tourists in the area, as Crans-Montana has seen gatherings of mourning, with flowers and candles laid in memory of the victims. The Swiss government announced the beginning of a national mourning period lasting five days, with flags lowered to half-mast.
Reports indicate that among the deceased and injured are numerous young people and tourists from various nationalities, including French and Italian nationals, with the injured transported to hospitals in several Swiss cities, and some sent to medical facilities in neighboring countries for treatment.
