Pretoria – President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his deep sadness at the loss of life resulting from a devastating fire in the Swiss town of Crans-Montana on New Year’s Day.
The blaze erupted around 1:30 a.m. as hundreds of revelers, mostly teenagers and young adults, celebrated in the basement nightclub.
The devastating fire ripped through the Le Constellation bar in the upscale Alpine ski resort, killing approximately 40 people and injuring at least 115 others, many seriously.
In a statement made available to The Bulrushes, the Presidency said: “On behalf of the Government and people of the Republic of South Africa, President Ramaphosa conveys heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives, as well as to the people and Government of the Swiss Confederation during this time of profound grief”.
Most victims were found in the basement, succumbing to smoke inhalation or burns.
President Ramaphosa said: “South Africans stand in solidarity with the people of Switzerland as they mourn this tragic loss of life.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families and all those affected by this heartbreaking incident.”
President Ramaphosa also extended words of support to the emergency services and first responders who acted with courage and dedication in the face of this tragedy, and expressed confidence that the Swiss people will draw strength from their unity and resilience in this difficult moment.
Meanwhile, mourners have laid flowers and candles at the site, while the resort town remains in shock.
Swiss President Guy Parmelin called the devastating fire one of the country’s worst tragedies, announcing five days of national mourning.
Identification of victims, including those from Switzerland, France, Italy, and other nationalities, continues using DNA and dental records.
The incident has prompted scrutiny of fire safety in venues using pyrotechnics.
