A New Year’s celebration turned into a tragedy when a fire broke out in Switzerland on New Year’s day.
At least 40 people were dead and authorities said some 115 others were injured.
The tragic incident took place in an upscale alpine ski resort town called Kranz, Montana.
Officials say a fire broke out at 1:30 a.m in a bar called Le Constellation in the resort in southwestern Switzerland.
A few seconds later, a witness contacted the engagement centre of the Valley-Cantonau Police to report the fire.
Firefighters arrived on the scene less than a minute later.
Police cordoned off the bar and forensic tents around the area were put up.
The cause of the fire and safety standards at the bar are under investigation but authorities said it appeared to be an accident.
The Canton’s head of police Federique Gisler said people in the town were visibly shaken and worried for loved ones.
“ I cannot hide it from you we are shaken by what happened last night.”
A no-fly zone was imposed over Kran Montana and authorities said 10 helicopters and 40 ambulances had been deployed initially.
Authorities said they were trying to get the bodies of the victims to their families.
The head of security for the Valley-Canton said some of the victims are from other countries with a helpline opened for relatives.
“I know someone who might have been among the victims and I can’t reach her. I’m very worried,” said a woman at the resort. “I’m going to try to contact other people who know this woman to see if she is still alive.”
Many of the victims are young people and most of the injured are in serious condition. Authorities warn that it could take days or even weeks to identify the victims. Many of them could be foreign visitors.
Condolences have poured in from around the world.
Swiss President Guy Bernard Parmelin visited the site of the tragedy and thanked the foreign governments that are expressing solidarity. He said this could be one of the worst disasters Switzerland has ever experienced.
Mourners gathered to lay flowers and light candles at a memorial near the site.
