Australian Counted Among the Wounded in New Year’s Eve Blaze That Claimed the Lives of 40 in Switzerland's Ski Resort
An Australian national is counted among the 115 persons hurt in a blaze that ripped through a busy tavern during a New Year’s Eve party in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana, which resulted in 40 fatalities.
Ministerial Statement on Australian Casualty
A senior Australian government minister, Chris Bowen, confirmed on Friday morning that an Australian citizen was among the injured and was getting both hospital treatment and embassy aid.
“It’s clearly a terrible, terrible tragedy and undoubtedly all Australians offer their thoughts to the Swiss people, the victims and families,” Bowen told ABC RN radio.
He further stated, “I am able to verify an Australian was hurt and is receiving medical care and the family is being assisted, assistance from the Australian embassy. Further details cannot be shared for privacy reasons. The individual's name is being withheld at this point.”
Department Response and Ongoing Inquiries
The Australian DFAT stated this morning it was giving consular help 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 of an Australian that has been hurt and is undergoing treatment following the fire. Due to our confidentiality duties we are prevented from commenting further.”
The representative further stated, “The department is pursuing immediate inquiries with local authorities to determine whether any other Australians were impacted. Our team is ready to give consular help.”
Scope of Diplomatic Support
Diplomatic aid often encompasses:
- Contacting or going to medical facilities.
- Working with officials on site.
- Supplying details of healthcare professionals.
- Assistance communicating with family members.
Circumstances Surrounding the Blaze
Authorities in Switzerland stated the inferno ignited at approximately 1:30 am, local time, in a nightclub frequented by visitors called Le Constellation, which is located in the centre of the Valais resort.
Recordings of the tragedy reveals fierce orange flames from inside the street-level bar and lounge. Screams and loud music can be heard, and multiple persons were witnessed lying outside the building.
Certain victims in the blaze have not been able to be identified yet due to the severity of their burns.
Cause and the Fire's Origin
Swiss police said it was not a case of arson for the fire, which is believed to be the consequence of an unintentional act.
Information for Worried Relatives
Australian nationals worried about loved ones potentially affected in the fire were advised to call Dfat’s 24/7 consular emergency support line on the number 1300 555 135.