Eyewitnesses have shared their shock and horror following a tragic fire and explosion that tore through a bar in an Alpine resort during a new year celebration.
Swiss authorities have stated that “several tens of people” are believed to have lost their lives and approximately 100 individuals have been injured, with most sustaining serious injuries. The incident occurred around 1:30 am local time on Thursday at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, situated 25 miles north of the Matterhorn.
While investigations are ongoing and efforts are being made to identify the victims and notify their families, police have not provided specific details on the fatalities. The Italian ambassador to Switzerland mentioned that the process of identifying the bodies could extend for several weeks.
A Dutch tourist named Lara, aged 28, arrived at the scene just nine minutes after the explosion and witnessed the chaos that ensued. She described seeing distressing scenes where individuals were severely burned and in urgent need of help. Lara highlighted that the bar catered to a younger crowd, with features like pool tables and a dart board, making it a popular hangout spot.
The cause of the blaze remains unclear; however, Lara noted that the bar was predominantly constructed of wood with a low ceiling, emphasizing the narrowness of the staircase which could have posed challenges for evacuation.
Two survivors recounted witnessing the fire ignite when a candle came into contact with the wooden ceiling of the basement. They described a chaotic situation as people attempted to flee through a single narrow staircase, resulting in a crush of individuals struggling to escape.
Numerous witnesses, including French holidaymaker Bastien Frema and local Swiss resident Matthew, shared accounts of the harrowing scenes they encountered, with many expressing concern for their friends and loved ones who were present during the tragic event.
As emergency services continue their operations, the community remains in shock, with fears that the victims may include teenagers and young adults who frequented the bar. The aftermath of the incident has left many individuals anxiously awaiting news about missing friends and grappling with the devastating impact of the tragedy.