Switzerland: 40 deaths, 115 injuries in Crans-Montana Resort Fire

GENEVA, Jan 1 (KUNA) -- Swiss authorities revealed Thursday the preliminary toll of the tragic fire that broke out at a tourist ski resort in Crans-Montana in southwestern Switzerland during New Year celebrations, reporting about 40 deaths and 115 injuries mostly in critical condition due to severe burns and smoke inhalation.
This came during a press conference held by the Valais cantonal police chief Frederic Gisler, the president of Switzerland Guy Parmelin, and other local officials.
Parmelin described the incident as "one of the worst tragedies" Switzerland has experienced, announcing a decision to lower flags at federal government buildings for five days in mourning for the victims.
He announced that a formal investigation has been opened to determine the circumstances of the incident, noting that the causes of the fire remain unknown at this stage.
For his part, State Councillor and President of the Valais Cantonal Council Mathias Reynard said that the process of identifying the victims is expected to take some time due to the severity of the injuries.
Earlier in the day, local authorities in the Valais canton reported that they had ruled out the possibility of an attack at the resort, noting that preliminary information indicates a fire that resulted in an explosion. (pickup previous) imk.mt