Tragedy Strikes Swiss Ski Resort: Explosion at New Year’s Eve Party in Crans Montana
A devastating explosion occurred at a New Year’s Eve party in the Swiss ski resort of Crans Montana, resulting in the loss of at least 40 lives and injuring over 100 people. The blast, which is not being treated as a terrorist attack, took place at the popular Le Constellation bar, where tourists had gathered to celebrate the start of the new year. The explosion caused severe damage to the building, with some victims suffering severe burns, making them unrecognizable.
The Italian Ambassador to Switzerland and the Italian Consul General in Geneva are traveling to Crans-Montana to provide assistance to the relatives of the victims. A collection point for family members has been set up at the ‘le Regent’ conference centre, and the Swiss cantonal police have established a helpline, which can be reached at +41848112117, also accessible from Italy. The authorities have confirmed that the accident is not being treated as a terrorist attack, and an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the explosion.
International Response and Investigation
Swiss authorities have reported that some of the victims are from other countries, although the exact nationalities have not been disclosed. The police have described the location as an “internationally famous ski resort with many tourists”. The Italian Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani, has expressed Italy’s closeness to the Swiss Foreign Minister, Ignazio Cassis, and is in contact with the Italian Ambassador, who is arriving at the site with staff from the Geneva consulate. Crisis units of the Farnesina and diplomatic offices in Switzerland are collaborating with the Swiss police to provide assistance.
According to witnesses, the explosion may have been caused by a fire from a brazier that was lit in the bar, and the hypothesis is that fireworks may have been ignited, although the authorities have not commented on this. The images published by the Swiss media show a building on fire, with emergency services nearby. The intervention is still ongoing, and the authorities are working to determine the cause of the explosion.
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Video Footage and Updates
Video Explosion in the Swiss ski resort of Crans Montana: several victims
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