An Australian is among the 115 persons hurt in a fire that tore through a busy tavern during a New Year’s Eve party in the mountain resort of Crans Montana, claiming 40 lives.
Government Statement on National Casualty
Australia’s climate change and energy minister, Chris Bowen, stated early Friday that an Australian had been injured and was obtaining medical care and diplomatic support.
“This is undoubtedly a horrific, horrific tragedy and I’m sure all Australians send their condolences to the nation of Switzerland, the victims and families,” the minister said during ABC RN radio.
He continued, “I am able to verify an Australian was hurt and is obtaining hospital treatment and the relatives are getting help, support from Australian diplomats. I am unable to provide more specifics for confidentiality obligations. The name of the individual is not being released at this point.”
Diplomatic Response and Continued Efforts
Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade verified early Friday it was providing consular assistance to the hurt national and their family.
A Dfat spokesperson said: “The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Dfat) is providing consular assistance to the family of an Australian that has been injured and is receiving medical care following the fire. Owing to our privacy obligations we are unable to provide further comment.”
The representative further stated, “The department is pursuing immediate inquiries with authorities on the ground to ascertain if any further Australian nationals were involved. Our team is ready to give consular help.”
Nature of Consular Assistance
Diplomatic aid often encompasses:
- Communicating with or visiting local hospitals.
- Coordinating with Swiss authorities.
- Offering information on doctors and clinics.
- Assistance communicating with family members.
Circumstances Surrounding the Blaze
Local police reported the blaze began around 1:30 a.m., local time, in a tavern favored by holidaymakers called Le Constellation bar, which is situated in the heart of the resort in Valais.
Recordings of the tragedy depicts orange fire raging from inside the first-floor establishment. Screams and loud music can be heard, and multiple persons were witnessed lying outside the building.
A number of those who perished in the inferno remain unidentified yet due to the severity of their burns.
Investigation into the Fire's Origin
Swiss police said arson was not responsible for the fire, which is believed to be the outcome of a mishap.
Advice for Concerned Australians
Citizens anxious regarding family members who may have been caught up in the fire were instructed to contact Dfat’s 24/7 consular emergency support line on the number 1300 555 135.
