Australian Among the Wounded in NYE Blaze That Killed 40 in Swiss Alpine Resort
An Australian is among the 115 people injured in a inferno that engulfed a crowded bar during a New Year’s Eve party in the mountain resort of Crans Montana, claiming 40 lives.
Ministerial Confirmation on Australian Casualty
The Australian minister for climate and energy, Chris Bowen, stated early Friday that an Australian national was hurt and was getting both hospital treatment and embassy aid.
“This is undoubtedly a horrific, horrific tragedy and I am confident every Australian extends their sympathies to the people of Switzerland, the people involved,” Bowen told ABC RN radio.
He added, “I can confirm that one Australian has been injured and is obtaining hospital treatment and the family is receiving support, support from Australian diplomats. I can’t go into any further details for privacy reasons. The person's identity is not being disclosed at this point.”
Diplomatic Assistance and Ongoing Inquiries
The nation's foreign affairs department confirmed on Friday morning it was providing consular assistance to the hurt national and their family.
A department representative said: “The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Dfat) is providing consular assistance to the family members of an Australian citizen that has been wounded and is in care following the fire. Because of our privacy commitments we are not in a position to give more details.”
The official continued, “The department is pursuing immediate inquiries with authorities on the ground to determine whether any further Australian nationals were involved. We stand ready to provide consular assistance.”
Nature of Consular Assistance
Such support may involve:
- Contacting or going to local hospitals.
- Working with officials on site.
- Provision of lists of medical providers.
- Help in contacting relatives.
Details of the Tragic Fire
Authorities in Switzerland stated the blaze began around 1:30 a.m., local time, in a bar popular with tourists called the Constellation, which is found in the downtown area of the alpine resort.
Video of the incident depicts orange fire raging from inside the ground-floor bar and lounge. Screams and loud music can be heard, and several people were seen collapsed outside the building.
A number of those who perished in the inferno remain unidentified yet due to the seriousness of the burns.
Investigation into the Fire's Origin
Swiss police said it was not a case of arson for the inferno, which is considered to be the consequence of an unintentional act.
Information for Concerned Australians
Australian nationals worried about family members who may have been caught up in the fire were advised to call the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on the number 1300 555 135.
