Dozens Dead, Over 100 Injured in Swiss Alps Bar Fire
A fire at a bar in the Swiss Alps killed approximately 40 people and injured over 100 during a New Year's celebration early Thursday morning. The blaze occurred at Le Constellation, a bar in the Crans-Montana ski resort town, located in the canton of Valais, according to reports.
The fire broke out in the early morning hours as many young people gathered to celebrate the New Year. Swiss President Guy Parmelin described the event as "one of the worst tragedies our country has ever experienced." Parmelin postponed a scheduled New Year's address to travel to the scene of the tragedy. "This tragedy occurred in a place that is naturally associated with life and joy," he said.
Authorities are currently working to identify the deceased and return their remains to their families, according to the New York Times. The cause of the fire remains undetermined, and authorities have not yet released further details, according to NPR.
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