Crans Montana: Swiss authorities are facing a difficult task as they work to identify victims of a devastating fire that broke out at a crowded bar in the Alpine resort town of Crans-Montana during New Year celebrations.
The fire erupted shortly after midnight at a popular underground bar where dozens of people had gathered to welcome the new year. Officials say at least 47 people have died, while more than 100 others were injured, many of them with serious burns. Several victims remain in critical condition at hospitals across the region.
Police and forensic teams said the identification process is slow and complex because many bodies were badly burned. Authorities are relying on DNA samples and dental records, and have warned that confirming all identities may take several days. Families of missing persons have been asked to provide medical and personal records to assist the process.
Investigators believe the fire spread extremely fast. Early findings suggest a sudden flash fire may have been triggered inside the packed venue, possibly linked to decorative sparklers used during celebrations. Officials have stressed that there is no indication of terrorism.
Emergency services described scenes of panic as thick smoke filled the basement bar, making escape difficult. Some survivors said visibility dropped within seconds, leaving little time to react.
The tragedy has shaken Switzerland, a nation unaccustomed to disasters of this scale. Local authorities have set up support centers for relatives and friends of the victims, while grief counselors have been deployed in the resort town.
Several foreign nationals are believed to be among the dead and injured, and embassies are working closely with Swiss officials to assist their citizens. Messages of condolence have poured in from leaders across Europe.
As Crans Montana mourns, questions are being raised about safety measures in nightlife venues, especially during major celebrations. Authorities said a full investigation is underway and promised that responsibility will be fixed once all facts are known.
For now, the focus remains on identifying the victims and supporting families as the country begins a period of mourning for one of the deadliest fires in its recent history.