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An Australian is among the 115 persons hurt in a fire that tore through a crowded bar during a NYE celebration in the Swiss ski resort of Crans Montana, which resulted in 40 fatalities.

Ministerial Confirmation on National Casualty

A senior Australian government minister, Chris Bowen, confirmed on Friday morning that an Australian national was hurt and was getting both hospital treatment and embassy aid.

“It’s clearly a terrible, terrible 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, “I can confirm that one Australian has been injured and is receiving medical care and the family is receiving support, support from Australian diplomats. I am unable to provide more specifics for privacy reasons. The name of the individual is not being released at this point.”

Department Response 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 foreign affairs official said: “Consular aid is being given by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to the family of an Australian that has been wounded and is in care following the fire. Owing to our privacy obligations we are unable to provide further comment.”

The representative further stated, “Dfat is making urgent inquiries with authorities on the ground to establish if any additional Australians were affected. We are prepared to offer diplomatic support.”

Scope of Consular Assistance

Consular assistance can include:

• Contacting or going to medical facilities.
• Coordinating with Swiss authorities.
• Supplying details of healthcare professionals.
• Support for reaching out to next of kin.

Details of the Blaze

Swiss police said the blaze began around 1:30 a.m., local time, in a bar popular with tourists called the Constellation, which is located in the centre of the alpine resort.

Video of the incident reveals fierce orange flames from inside the ground-floor bar and lounge. Screams and loud music can be heard, and multiple persons were witnessed lying outside the building.

Certain victims in the blaze have not been able to be identified yet due to the severity of their burns.

Cause and the Blaze's Cause

Investigators stated the fire was not deliberately set for the fire, which is believed to be the consequence of an unintentional act.

Information for Concerned Australians

Australians concerned about family members who may have been caught up in the fire were instructed to contact the DFAT round-the-clock consular emergency line on the number 1300 555 135.