Australian Among the Wounded in NYE Fire That Claimed the Lives of 40 in Swiss Alpine Resort

An Australian national is counted among the 115 persons hurt in a inferno that engulfed a busy tavern during a New Year’s Eve party in the Alpine resort town of Crans-Montana, which resulted in 40 fatalities.

Government Statement on National Injured Person

Australia’s climate change and energy minister, Chris Bowen, announced this morning that an Australian citizen was among the injured and was receiving medical and consular assistance.

“This is undoubtedly a horrific, horrific tragedy and I’m sure all Australians send their condolences to the people of Switzerland, the victims and families,” the minister said during ABC RN radio.

He added, “It can be confirmed an Australian national was injured and is obtaining hospital treatment and the relatives are getting help, assistance from the Australian embassy. I can’t go into any further details for reasons of personal privacy. The person's identity is not being disclosed at this point.”

Department Assistance and Continued Efforts

Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade stated this morning it was offering diplomatic support to the injured person and their family.

A Dfat spokesperson said: “Consular aid is being given by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to the family members of an Australian citizen that has been wounded and is in care following the fire. Because of our privacy commitments we are prevented from commenting further.”

The spokesperson added, “Dfat is making urgent inquiries with local authorities to ascertain if any other Australians were impacted. Our team is ready to give consular help.”

Scope of Consular Assistance

Consular assistance can include:

• Contacting or going to hospitals in the area.
• Coordinating with Swiss authorities.
• Supplying details of healthcare professionals.
• Support for reaching out to next of kin.

Details of the Tragic Fire

Authorities in Switzerland stated the fire started at about 1.30am, local time, in a bar popular with tourists called Le Constellation, which is situated in the heart of the resort in Valais.

Footage from the event shows orange flames billowing from inside the first-floor establishment. Shouts and loud tunes are discernible, and a number of individuals were observed fallen outside the building.

Some people who died in the blaze have not been able to be identified yet due to the extent of their injuries.

Investigation into the Blaze's Cause

Investigators stated arson was not responsible for the fire, which is believed to be the result of an accident.

Advice for Concerned Australians

Australians concerned about family members who may have been caught up in the fire were advised to call Dfat’s 24/7 consular emergency support line on 1300 555 135.