Desperate families continued their relentless quest for information concerning their loved ones following the tragic fire incident during the Swiss New Year celebration. The devastating event claimed the lives of teenagers, including 16-year-old golfer Emanuele Galeppini, among at least 40 victims in the upscale ski town of Crans-Montana. Laetitia Broadard-Sitre, a distressed mother, anxiously awaited news about her 16-year-old son Arthur, who had reached out to wish her a Happy New Year just after midnight.
With tears in her eyes, Laetitia expressed her anguish near the fire site, stating, “The wait is unbearable. I will keep searching, I won’t give up.” Concerned relatives like Diana Gonset and Alicia Gonset shared information and photos of their missing family members on social media, holding onto hope of finding them safe.
The families of missing individuals like Alice Kallergis, Caroline, Mariam Essouri, Emilie Pralong, and others made emotional appeals for any information on their whereabouts. Swiss authorities revealed that the identification process of the victims could take days due to the scale of the tragedy, with 119 individuals receiving medical treatment, including 80 listed in critical condition.
Investigators reported that the fire, suspected to have originated from sparkler candles atop champagne bottles, quickly spread through the venue’s ceiling. Questions arose regarding safety measures in the bar, such as the lack of visible exits and possible overcrowding. Authorities are actively pursuing a criminal investigation to determine any negligence or liability in connection with the incident.
Amidst the devastating aftermath, acts of heroism emerged, including accounts of bravery by individuals like Ferdinand Du Beaudiez, who risked his life to save others during the fire. As the community mourned, plans for a memorial ceremony and a book of condolences were announced to support those affected by the tragic event.
