The British Foreign Office has pledged its assistance to British nationals who may have been affected by a tragic fire at a popular ski resort bar in Switzerland.
A devastating blaze broke out at the Le Constellation Bar and Lounge in Crans-Montana, Valais, during a New Year’s Eve celebration, resulting in multiple fatalities and approximately 100 injuries. The fire started early in the morning at the bar, which has a capacity of up to 400 people.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, as the resort attracts tourists from around the world, with some of the victims believed to be of foreign nationality. However, no identities have been disclosed yet.
In response to the tragedy, the UK Foreign Office expressed condolences and highlighted its readiness to support affected British nationals. Despite no requests for consular assistance from UK citizens or their families at this stage, the UK embassy in Bern emphasized its continuous monitoring of the situation and availability to provide assistance.
Efforts are underway to identify the victims and notify their families, although the process may take time, as stated by Valais Canton police commander Frédéric Gisler. The possibility that individuals from other countries were involved in the tragedy has not been ruled out, according to Béatrice Pilloud, Attorney General of Valais.
While an investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the fire, authorities have indicated that it is not being treated as a terrorist attack. French nationals were among those injured in the incident, according to the French foreign office, which expressed condolences and solidarity with the Swiss authorities.
The tragic event has prompted significant forensic efforts to identify the victims and repatriate them swiftly to their families. The focus remains on the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fire, with officials leaning towards the theory of an accidental blaze rather than an intentional attack.