'Enduring a Horrific Ordeal': Relatives of Missing Teenagers Await Information After Alpine Fire
The relatives of teens unaccounted for after a tragic blaze at a venue in a Swiss winter destination are facing an agonising wait for official news and appealing for any details about their loved ones publicly.
The blaze engulfed the Le Constellation bar in Cans-Montana, located in the Swiss Alps of the Valais region, in the small hours of the first day of the year. Confirmed images reveal the ceiling catching alight as beverages with fireworks are raised in celebration.
Officials have warned that it could take an extended period to formally name the those who perished of the disaster, which killed 40 people and injured another scores more. A spokesperson noted on Friday that the majority of the those hurt have been identified, with efforts continuing to locate the remaining few.
In the waiting period, loved ones have been taking to social media to request clues about their loved ones who were present at the venue that night.
Desperate Searches for the Unaccounted For
The fate of Swiss national Arthur Brodard, 16, are not yet determined, according to an public plea from his family.
The resident of Lutry near Lausanne, told a publication that she had returned to the city to check whether he was in the hospital, while his other parent did the same in the capital, but could not find him.
"It feels like a terrible dream, a horror. Either I find my son in the morgue, or I find him in critical condition. It's horrific," she stated.
She explained that some of his friends had been discovered with injuries covering nearly half their bodies. "It's unspeakable; they went through hell."
The Italy's government has said that six of its nationals are still unaccounted for.
Included in that group is Emanuele Galeppini, a 16-year-old junior golfer, originally from Genoa but now living in the UAE.
The national sporting body has said that he is no longer with us, without directly referencing the fire, paying tribute to a "young athlete who carried with him dedication and authentic values."
His parent, reportedly stated that his son was at the bar and was last in contact around the new year. An representative has stated that a formal confirmation of his death is awaited.
Further Cases
Giovanni Tamburi, 16, is likewise unaccounted for. His mother explained that he had been on holiday but had gone out with a group and found himself at the bar.
"A close friend said they escaped after the fire erupted and that he had his phone with him, but then at a specific moment he couldn't see him anymore," she explained, adding he had been wearing a identifiable piece of jewelry.
One of his educators said, "He was known for his kindness and positive demeanor, combined with great responsibility. He would frequently offer to get me a coffee."
Alice Kallergis, who holds both Swiss and Greek nationality but lives permanently in the country, was also at the bar on that night, according to sources.
Her sibling has shared an urgent request on social media, saying the family has had "no updates" regarding the teenager or the three friends she was with, who are also unaccounted for.
Officials from her country of origin say they are actively engaged with the developments.