Survivors of a devastating fire in the Swiss Alps are desperately seeking information about the victims. The blaze ripped through a bar in Crans-Montana during a New Year's celebration. About 40 people died, and over 100 were injured, many critically.
The fire erupted early Thursday morning at Le Constellation, a bar in the canton of Valais. An explosion followed the initial outbreak. Authorities are investigating the cause but have ruled out terrorism. Prosecutor General Beatrice Pilloud stated the investigation aims to clarify the circumstances of the fire.
Swiss President Guy Parmelin called it one of the country's worst tragedies. He postponed his New Year's address to visit the scene. Authorities are working to identify the deceased and return them to their families.
Crans-Montana is a popular ski resort town in the Swiss Alps. The bar was packed with young people celebrating New Year's Eve. The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.
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