Australian Among the Injured in NYE Fire That Claimed the Lives of 40 in Swiss Ski Resort
One Australian is included in the 115 individuals wounded in a fire that tore through a crowded bar during a NYE celebration in the Swiss ski resort of Crans Montana, which resulted in 40 fatalities.
Government Statement on National Casualty
The Australian minister for climate and energy, Chris Bowen, confirmed on Friday morning that an Australian had been injured and was obtaining medical care and diplomatic support.
“This is undoubtedly a horrific, horrific tragedy and I am confident every Australian extends their sympathies to the Swiss people, the individuals affected,” Bowen stated on ABC RN radio.
He further stated, “It can be confirmed an Australian national was injured and is receiving medical care and the family is receiving support, support from Australian diplomats. I can’t go into any further details for confidentiality obligations. The person's identity is not being disclosed at this point.”
Department Assistance and Ongoing Inquiries
The Australian DFAT verified early Friday it was giving consular help to the injured person and their family.
A department representative said: “The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Dfat) is providing consular assistance to the relatives of an Australian national that has been wounded and is in care following the fire. Due to our confidentiality duties we are not in a position to give more details.”
The representative further stated, “DFAT is conducting urgent checks with authorities on the ground to establish if any additional Australians were affected. We stand ready to provide consular assistance.”
Scope of Diplomatic Support
Diplomatic aid often encompasses:
- Reaching out to or attending hospitals in the area.
- Liaising with local authorities.
- Supplying details of healthcare professionals.
- Support for reaching out to next of kin.
Circumstances Surrounding the Tragic Fire
Swiss police said the inferno ignited at approximately 1:30 am, local time, in a tavern favored by holidaymakers called Le Constellation, which is situated in the heart of the resort in Valais.
Footage from the event depicts orange fire raging from inside the ground-floor bar and lounge. Cries and blaring music are audible, and multiple persons were witnessed lying outside the building.
Some people who died in the fire have yet to be identified yet due to the severity of their burns.
Cause and the Blaze's Cause
Swiss police said the fire was not deliberately set for the fire, which is believed to be the result of an accident.
Information for Concerned Australians
Australians concerned about relatives who might have been involved in the fire were told to phone the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on 1300-555-135.
