Switzerland Ski Resort Fire Kills 40, Injures 115 in Crans-Montana
Switzerland Ski Resort Fire Kills 40, Injures 115 in Crans-Montana
Reported from the source
Quick summary: A devastating fire at Le Constellation bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana has resulted in 40 fatalities and 115 injuries. Many of the victims are young, prompting an impromptu vigil at the scene. Authorities believe the blaze was accidental, with an investigation underway into its circumstances.
The fire, which tore through the crowded Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, has left dozens dead and approximately 115 injured. Young teenagers have gathered for an impromptu vigil outside the police cordon, placing candles and flowers, even as the resort centre remains busy with holidaymakers. The president of Switzerland noted that many victims were young, and friends have come to pay their respects. Milica Lazic, who visited the scene, mentioned a friend working as a bouncer at the nightclub who has not been reached. She described Le Constellation as a popular spot for younger locals. Her father added that the bar often had no cover charge, contributing to its popularity among young people. Ernesto Perila, owner of a nearby pizzeria, confirmed Le Constellation was an “institution,” frequented by locals and open year-round. He recounted the city buzzing on the night of the disaster, hearing sirens and helicopters after midnight, and being shocked by the news in the early morning. Swiss police have ruled out arson, stating the blaze is thought to have started accidentally. No arrests have been made, and no suspects identified. The investigation focuses on the circumstances of the fire during a New Year celebration. Valais canton prosecutor general Beatrice Pilloud could not comment on unconfirmed reports that a candle ignited a wooden ceiling, though video footage appears to show the ceiling ablaze. The emergency response involved 42 ambulances, 13 helicopters, and three disaster trucks. Around 35 people sought care at local centres, while 80 received hospital services, with a significant number in critical condition. Offers of help have come from Italy, France, and Germany, and injured patients may be transported to hospitals in neighbouring countries. Lausanne University Hospital is caring for about 22 people, with the most serious patients aged 16 to 26, and the youngest patient being 16. Sixteen Italians have been reported missing, and about a dozen more Italian nationals are being treated in hospitals. Dominic Dubois, a witness to the aftermath, noted that neighbouring bars remained open to assist injured people. Stephane Ganzer, head of security for Valais canton, praised the “heroic behaviour” of emergency services and many young people who acted quickly to help those caught in the blaze. Local medical services are under “extreme tension,” and residents are urged to avoid overwhelming emergency rooms with minor incidents.
Source: www.theguardian.com
