SWITZERLAND 47 dead in fire, many of 115 injured in critical condition

(Patria) - 47 people died and 115 were injured in a fire that engulfed a catering facility in the popular ski resort of Crans-Montana in Switzerland on New Year's Eve.

The fire in the bar Le Constellation broke out at 1:30 AM. Authorities confirmed that people of various nationalities were in the bar. The chief regional prosecutor noted that authorities are treating the case as a fire and have ruled out the possibility of an attack.

Swiss President Guy Parmelin stated that this is "one of the worst tragedies to have occurred in the country". The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that 16 Italian citizens are missing, while between 12 and 15 are being treated in hospital. French media report that at least two French citizens are among the injured.

The fire was so fierce and caused severe burns to the victims that it is difficult to identify them. Among the missing are several French and Italian citizens, including 16-year-old Giovanni from Bologna, whose mother is desperately asking for help. Two teenagers from Milan are also listed as missing.

The bar was popular among a young audience, and many victims were teenagers. Some survivors stated that they escaped the flames by breaking windows.

The injured are being treated in hospitals across Switzerland and abroad. The condition of many is described as critical.

A search is also underway for a Serbian citizen who worked at the bar.