Authorities Search for Missing After Fire Claims 47 Lives in Switzerland

Emergency services in Switzerland are actively searching for several individuals reported missing following a devastating fire at the Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana on January 1, 2024. The tragedy has claimed the lives of nearly 50 people and left over 100 injured. The fire broke out around 01:30 local time, shortly after witnesses reported seeing staff enter the venue carrying champagne and flares.

The local community is reeling from the loss, with families desperately seeking information about their loved ones. At least seven individuals have been confirmed missing, including four teenagers who were reportedly attending the New Year’s celebration. Local officials noted that the event was primarily attended by young adults, raising concerns about the impact of the disaster.

Among those missing is Arthur Brodard, a 16-year-old whose mother, Laetitia, expressed her anguish in an interview with local outlet BFMTV. She stated that she has been searching for her son for over 30 hours after checking local hospitals. Arthur was celebrating the New Year with a group of friends, and only one of them has been located since the fire.

Another set of teenagers, Alicia and Diana Gonset, aged 15 and 14 respectively, have also been reported missing. Their family took to social media to express their concern, stating they have been unable to locate them in the aftermath of the disaster.

A Greek national, Alice, aged 15, is also unaccounted for. Her brother has appealed for any information regarding her whereabouts. Alice, a permanent resident of Switzerland, was last seen when the fire erupted.

The search for missing individuals extends beyond teenagers. Emilie, a 22-year-old from France, is the subject of a public appeal by her grandfather, Pierre. He revealed that Emilie was in Crans-Montana with two friends but has not been seen since the incident. He urged witnesses who were at the bar to come forward with any information.

In another case, Giovanni Masielli, a 16-year-old from Bologna, Italy, is also missing. His mother, Carla Masielli, has reached out to local media, expressing her distress after calling all nearby hospitals without success. Giovanni was on holiday in Crans-Montana with his father and had gone out for dinner with friends before visiting the bar.

Additionally, a young man named Stiven, whose age has not been disclosed, is urgently sought by family and friends. His family reported that he was last seen just before the fire and described his attire, which included “white pants and a white sweater,” likely accompanied by sunglasses.

As the recovery efforts continue, the community stands united in hope for the safe return of the missing individuals. The local authorities are coordinating with emergency services to investigate the cause of the fire and ensure the safety of the remaining residents and visitors.