Australian Counted Among the Wounded in NYE Fire That Killed 40 in Swiss Alpine Resort
One Australian is included in the 115 people injured in a inferno that engulfed a packed nightclub during a end-of-year festivities in the Alpine resort town of Crans-Montana, claiming 40 lives.
Government Statement on National Casualty
Australia’s climate change and energy minister, Chris Bowen, announced this morning that an Australian citizen was among the injured and was obtaining medical care and diplomatic support.
“It is plainly a dreadful, dreadful disaster and undoubtedly all Australians offer their thoughts to the nation of Switzerland, the victims and families,” Bowen stated on ABC RN radio.
He added, “I can confirm that one Australian has been injured and is getting medical attention and the relatives are getting help, assistance from the Australian embassy. Further details cannot be shared for reasons of personal privacy. The individual's name is being withheld at this point.”
Diplomatic Response and Continued Efforts
The Australian DFAT confirmed on Friday morning it was offering diplomatic support to the affected individual and their relatives.
A Dfat spokesperson 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. Due to our confidentiality duties we are not in a position to give more details.”
The representative further stated, “DFAT is conducting urgent checks with authorities on the ground to determine whether any additional Australians were affected. We stand ready to provide consular assistance.”
Nature of Consular Assistance
Diplomatic aid often encompasses:
- Contacting or going to local hospitals.
- Working with officials on site.
- Supplying details of healthcare professionals.
- Help in contacting relatives.
Details of the Blaze
Swiss police said the blaze began around 1:30 a.m., local time, in a nightclub frequented by visitors called Le Constellation bar, which is located in the centre of the resort in Valais.
Video of the incident 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.
Certain victims in the blaze have not been able to be identified yet due to the seriousness of the burns.
Cause and the Blaze's Cause
Authorities confirmed it was not a case of arson for the blaze, which is thought to be the consequence of an unintentional act.
Information for Worried Relatives
Australians concerned about loved ones potentially affected in the fire were instructed to contact the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on 1300-555-135.