Major update as ‘at least 40 dead’ in New Year’s Eve fire at Swiss ski resort | World | News
It was reported that “at least 40” people died in a fire that broke out at a ski resort in Switzerland during New Year’s celebrations. The fire started at Le Constellation Bar and Lounge in Crans-Montana during celebrations. Following the incident, which occurred at 1.30 local time, social media images show dense smoke clouds filling the sky.
The Italian foreign ministry said at least 40 people were killed, according to local officials. The Valais cantonal police commander added that “about 100” people were injured. Officials added at a press conference that some of the victims were from other countries.
They did not say exactly where the victims came from but described the area as “an internationally renowned ski resort with a large number of tourists.” The area is currently closed and a no-fly zone has been established over Crans-Montana.
Spokesperson Gaetan Lathion said: “We see many injured and many dead. We are still at the beginning of our investigation, but this is an internationally renowned ski resort with a lot of tourists.”
Local media report that at least 100 people were in the bar at the time of the explosion. Le Constellation Bar and Lounge reportedly has a capacity of 300 people.
Swiss police added that they ruled out the possibility of an attack.
State council president Mathias Renard said 10 helicopters and 40 ambulances responded to the fire. The intensive care unit of the Valais hospital is now full and patients are being transferred elsewhere.
Some of the injured were transferred to other university hospitals in Switzerland.
“Some of the injured are in stable condition in intensive care, and the seriously injured will be transferred to other university hospitals for treatment.”
Valais state councilor Stephane Ganzer added that hospitals “all over the country” were dealing with the aftermath of the explosion.
He said: “Emergency services are working with full force and working bravely. Hospitals across the country are dealing with the injured. To help them with their work, please avoid all risky activities today. Thank you on their behalf.”
