Firefighters who confronted a deadly inferno at a Swiss ski resort bar were spontaneously applauded by grieving locals during a poignant wreath-laying ceremony. The emotional tribute came as the community in Crans-Montana continues to reel from a fire that claimed multiple young lives at the Le Constellation bar.
A Community's Grief and Gratitude
In a sombre act of remembrance, a group of around a dozen male and female firefighters, several visibly weeping, stood arm-in-arm outside the charred remains of the bar. They had gathered to lay a wreath for the victims they were unable to save from the blaze. The spontaneous applause from bystanders served as a raw, grateful acknowledgement of their bravery in rescuing many others from the flames.
One can only imagine the horrific scenes these first responders faced as they descended into the burning basement bar to pull young people, many with severe burns, out into the sub-zero Alpine night. After the wreath was placed, the firefighters formed a circle for a moment of quiet prayer and reflection.
Families Confront Unthinkable Loss
In the days since the tragedy, makeshift shrines of flowers and candles have multiplied near Le Constellation, their glow rivalling the resort's lingering Christmas decorations. Loved ones have gathered there, holding photographs of the missing in a desperate vigil for news.
The grim process of formal identification via DNA testing continues, forcing many families to confront the likely fate of their children. One such parent is Andrea Costanzo, father of 16-year-old Chiara. He stated that his family's hopes were shattered when they learned the unidentified Italian patients in hospital were all male. "By elimination, we are certain that Chiara is on another list, that of the victims. My beloved Chiara is no more," he told the Italian press.
He remembered his daughter in heartfelt terms, now using the past tense: "She was only 16. She was an intelligent, cheerful, and empathetic girl." Mr Costanzo also spoke of the agonising guilt he feels, recounting how he was prevented by firefighters from entering the burning building to search for her.
Investigation and Demands for Accountability
The ceremony was attended by local dignitaries and Swiss Justice Minister Beat Jans. When asked if the tragedy could have been avoided, Mr Jans responded, "This is a question that we cannot answer at the moment. The investigation is going on. We will clarify the responsibilities when we have the evidence." He expressed the nation's profound sadness and extended thoughts to the injured and bereaved.
Meanwhile, political figures have begun demanding harsh consequences. Italy's Deputy Prime Minister, Matteo Salvini, issued a strident statement on social media, asserting: "In civilized Switzerland, prison doors will have to open for many people." He blamed those who he said failed to ensure safety, granted permits, and "crammed hundreds of young people into a basement" with inadequate emergency systems.
As a criminal investigation into potential manslaughter proceeds, the mood in Crans-Montana remains one of profound sorrow and a search for answers amidst the devastating loss.
