Fire in Switzerland: identification of bodies will take several days

In Crans-Montana, a well-known Swiss ski resort, a fire broke out in the Le Constellation bar on New Year's Eve, claiming around 40 victims and 115 injured, many of whom suffered serious burns.

Most of the victims were young people celebrating the arrival of the New Year.

Both the police and the local authorities have confirmed that the identity of many of the victims is still unknown. According to local authorities, dental and DNA samples will be needed to identify the bodies because of the burns, and the whole process may take several days.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the probable cause of the fire was an unfortunate accident, specifically lit candles that made contact with the ceiling in the bar's underground area.

Crans-Montana was deeply shaken by the incident - hundreds of local residents attended the evening commemoration, where they laid flowers and lit candles. Both the mayor and the police have promised that the investigation will continue.

The case has international implications - several embassies are trying to find out if foreigners are among the victims.

(reuters, pir)