An upscale ski resort in Switzerland’s Crans-Montana region was rocked by an explosion on Thursday in which many are feared dead, while several others severely injured, said Swiss police.
A US daily quoted police officials in saying that at least 40 people are confirmed dead so far in the fire, with media reports adding that the figure could be much higher.
At least 10 helicopters and 40 ambulances were mobilised to transfer the injured to hospitals, with most of the injured being in a serious condition, said head of the cantonal government, Mathias Reynard.
A police official present on the scene also confirmed that dozens were being treated for burn injuries sustained in a bar called, ‘Le Constellation’, where fire broke out around 1.30 a.m. when more than 100 people may have been present. The popular tourist place was crowded because of a New Year's Eve party.
While the area has been completely cordoned off, a no-fly zone has also been imposed over Crans-Montana, police confirmed.
The cause of the blast is unclear as investigations have been launched, but it is being considered a fire accident, and not an attack, said prosecutor, Beatrice Pilloud.
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