An Australian National Among the Injured in New Year’s Eve Fire That Claimed the Lives of 40 in Switzerland's Alpine Resort
One Australian is included in the 115 persons hurt in a inferno that engulfed a crowded bar during a New Year’s Eve party in the Alpine resort town of Crans Montana, claiming 40 lives.
Government Confirmation on Australian Injured Person
The Australian minister for climate and energy, Chris Bowen, announced this morning that an Australian citizen was among the injured and was receiving medical and consular assistance.
“This is undoubtedly a horrific, horrific tragedy and I am confident every Australian extends their sympathies to the people of Switzerland, the individuals affected,” the minister said during ABC RN radio.
He added, “It can be confirmed an Australian national was injured and is receiving medical care and the relatives are getting help, support from Australian diplomats. Further details cannot be shared for confidentiality obligations. The individual's name is being withheld at this point.”
Department Response and Ongoing Inquiries
The nation's foreign affairs department stated this morning it was providing consular assistance to the affected individual and their relatives.
A foreign affairs official said: “DFAT is currently offering consular support to the family of an Australian that has been injured and is receiving medical care following the fire. Because of our privacy commitments we are not in a position to give more details.”
The spokesperson added, “DFAT is conducting urgent checks with Swiss officials to determine whether any additional Australians were affected. We are prepared to offer diplomatic support.”
Nature of Consular Assistance
Diplomatic aid often encompasses:
- Contacting or going to local hospitals.
- Coordinating with Swiss authorities.
- Provision of lists of medical providers.
- Assistance communicating with family members.
Details of the Blaze
Swiss police said the inferno ignited at approximately 1:30 am, local time, in a tavern favored by holidaymakers called Le Constellation, which is located in the centre of the Valais resort.
Footage from the event reveals fierce orange flames from inside the street-level bar and lounge. Shouts and loud tunes are discernible, and several people were seen collapsed outside the building.
A number of those who perished in the fire have yet to be identified yet due to the severity of their burns.
Cause and the Blaze's Cause
Authorities confirmed it was not a case of arson for the inferno, which is considered to be the outcome of a mishap.
Advice for Concerned Australians
Australian nationals worried about relatives who might have been involved in the fire were instructed to contact the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on 1300-555-135.