Tragedy Strikes Swiss Ski Resort: Families Search for Missing Teens Following Devastating Bar Fire
In a tragic event that has sent shockwaves through a quiet Swiss ski resort, families are desperately searching for their missing loved ones after a catastrophic fire ripped through the Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, in the early hours of New Year’s Day. The devastating blaze resulted in the deaths of 40 people, with another 119 injured.
The Fire and Its Aftermath
Reports indicate that the fire broke out shortly after midnight during a New Year celebration. Eyewitness accounts reveal horrifying scenes as the ceiling engulfed in flames while partygoers raised bottles with sparklers. Authorities have stated that identifying the victims may take days or even weeks. As of now, officials have managed to identify 113 of the injured, leaving six individuals yet to be confirmed.
The Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs is currently coordinating with several families, providing them with the necessary support and information.
Families in Despair
The chaos following the fire has led families to flood social media with pleas for information regarding their missing relatives. Among those unaccounted for is Arthur Brodard, a 16-year-old Swiss national. His mother, Laetitia Brodard, is urging anyone who may have seen him to reach out. “I must find my son… it’s been 30 hours since [he] disappeared,” she stated, reflecting the profound anguish that families are currently experiencing. Laetitia and her husband have checked local hospitals but have yet to locate their son, as friends who survived the fire bear severe injuries, their stories underscoring the nightmare many faced that night.
The Missing Individuals
Arthur Brodard
The search primarily focuses on Arthur Brodard, who was last seen at the bar. His distraught mother said she wanted his photo “to be everywhere” in hopes of finding him.
Achille Osvaldo Giovanni Barosi
Another missing person is Achille Osvaldo Giovanni Barosi, a 16-year-old Italian who ventured into the bar around 1:30 AM to retrieve his belongings. Achille’s aunt, Francesca, shared her fears with the BBC World Service, stating, “We don’t know if he’s still alive.” Achille was a talented artist studying in Milan, cherished by his family.
Emanuele Galeppini
The Italian Golf Federation has confirmed the death of Emanuele Galeppini, a promising 16-year-old golfer originally from Genoa but residing in Dubai. His father reported that Emanuele was at the bar and last communicated with family just before midnight. The Federation honored his legacy, calling him a passionate young athlete.
Giovanni Tamburi
Giovanni Tamburi, also 16, is missing and has been described by his mother as someone who was out with friends on New Year’s Eve. According to reports, a friend attempted to escape with Giovanni but lost sight of him amid the chaos. His family and teachers describe him as kind-hearted and responsible.
Emilie Pralong
Emilie Pralong, a 22-year-old, is among those unaccounted for. Her grandfather expressed an "agonizing" wait for information, sharing his hope that she might be found safe.
Alice Kallergis
Another teenager, Alice Kallergis, who holds both Greek and Swiss nationality, is thought to also be missing, along with several friends. Her brother has taken to social media to plead for any information regarding their whereabouts.
The Ongoing Search
As the search continues, the families are left in limbo, grappling with the uncertainty of their loved ones’ fates. The Italian Foreign Ministry has acknowledged ongoing efforts to locate its citizens among the missing, underscoring the international ramifications of this tragedy.
Authorities urge anyone with relevant information to come forward. Various government and local organizations are providing assistance to those affected by this horrific incident.
Conclusion
As the investigation unfolds, the community’s solidarity is palpable. Each day brings hope and despair as families cling to the slightest lead to help reunite with their loved ones. The tragedy has not only impacted the immediate families but has resonated throughout the nation and beyond, reminding everyone of the fragility of life. The local authorities continue to work tirelessly, offering support and resources while families pray for news, positive or otherwise.
For ongoing updates, stay connected with local news sources and authority announcements.
