💔 Crans-Montana Fire: Tragedy & Resilience 🏔️

Europe

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Tragic Toll Rises to 40 as Identities of Victims Revealed
The devastating fire at the Le Constellation bar in Switzerland has claimed the lives of 40 individuals, with the recent identification of 16 more victims. This grim milestone underscores the scale of the tragedy and highlights the immense suffering within the affected community. Authorities, led by the Valais police, have meticulously worked to identify the deceased, providing closure for families and loved ones.

Youngest Victim: A 14-Year-Old’s Final Moment
The investigation revealed that the youngest person to perish in the blaze was a 14-year-old Swiss girl. This heartbreaking detail underscores the vulnerability of those present during the sudden and catastrophic event. Alongside her, two other 15-year-old Swiss girls tragically lost their lives, further emphasizing the devastating impact on young lives.

Diverse Nationalities Among the Deceased
The 16 newly identified victims represent a diverse range of nationalities, emphasizing the international nature of the bar's clientele. The list includes 10 Swiss nationals, two Italians, one person with Italian-Emirati citizenship, one Romanian, one person from France, and one from Turkiye. This diverse group reflects the global appeal of the bar and the widespread impact of the disaster.

Witness Accounts Paint a Picture of Chaos and Despair
Damiano Vizioli, a resident of Sion, bravely recounted his experience witnessing the fire’s sudden onset. He described the horrifying scene of screaming individuals and the immediate danger. His desperate search for a missing friend exemplifies the anguish and uncertainty felt by many in the wake of the tragedy, highlighting the need for information and support.

Community Grief and Calls for Justice
Eric Schmid, a local businessman, described the disaster as a deep wound that will require time to heal, emphasizing the emotional impact on the community. His statement reflects the profound sense of loss and the recognition of the long-term consequences of this devastating event.

Criminal Investigation Launched Following the Disaster
Swiss prosecutors announced on Saturday that the two individuals running the bar are currently under criminal investigation on suspicion of offenses, including homicide by negligence. This investigation aims to determine the circumstances surrounding the fire and hold those responsible accountable, marking an important step toward addressing the tragedy.