Australian Counted Among the Wounded in New Year’s Eve Fire That Killed 40 in Swiss Ski Resort

An Australian is among the 115 persons hurt in a blaze that ripped through a busy tavern during a NYE celebration in the Alpine resort town of Crans-Montana, killing 40 people.

Ministerial Confirmation on National Injured Person

Australia’s climate change and energy minister, Chris Bowen, stated early Friday that an Australian had been injured and was getting both hospital treatment and embassy aid.

“This is undoubtedly a horrific, horrific tragedy and undoubtedly all Australians offer their thoughts to the Swiss people, the people involved,” Bowen stated on ABC RN radio.

He further stated, “It can be confirmed an Australian national was injured and is getting medical attention and the family is being assisted, Australian consular support. Further details cannot be shared for privacy reasons. The name of the individual is not being released at this point.”

Department Response and Ongoing Inquiries

The nation's foreign affairs department verified early Friday 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 members of an Australian citizen that has been hurt and is undergoing treatment following the fire. Because of our privacy commitments we are unable to provide further comment.”

The spokesperson added, “Dfat is making urgent inquiries with authorities on the ground to determine whether any other Australians were impacted. We are prepared to offer diplomatic support.”

Nature of Diplomatic Support

Such support may involve:

• Reaching out to or attending hospitals in the area.
• Working with officials on site.
• Offering information on doctors and clinics.
• Help in contacting relatives.

Circumstances Surrounding the Blaze

Local police reported the inferno ignited at approximately 1:30 am, local time, in a bar popular with tourists called Le Constellation bar, which is found in the downtown area of the Valais resort.

Footage from the event depicts orange fire raging from inside the street-level bar and lounge. Cries and blaring music are audible, and multiple persons were witnessed lying outside the building.

Certain victims in the fire have yet to be identified yet due to the extent of their injuries.

Investigation into the Fire's Origin

Authorities confirmed the fire was not deliberately set 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 Dfat’s 24/7 consular emergency support line on the number 1300 555 135.