🔗 Share this article

The relatives of teenagers unaccounted for after a devastating inferno at a venue in a Switzerland's ski resort are enduring an agonising wait for confirmed information and requesting any details about their loved ones online.

The inferno ripped through the Le Constellation bar in the alpine resort, located in the mountains of south-west Switzerland, in the early hours of New Year's Day. Circulated images reveal the roof structure igniting as bottles with sparklers are held aloft.

Officials have warned that it could take an extended period to identify the victims of the tragedy, which killed numerous partygoers and wounded another 119. Officials stated on the latest update that the majority of the those hurt have been identified, with efforts ongoing to name the final individuals.

In the meantime, families and friends have been taking to online platforms to plead for any news about their missing relatives who were present at the venue that night.

Desperate Searches for the Missing

The fate of Swiss national Arthur Brodard, 16, are still unconfirmed, according to an public plea from his parent.

The resident of Lutry near Lausanne, explained to a publication that she had returned to Lausanne to check whether he was in the hospital, while his father did the equivalent search in the capital, but did not locate him.

"It feels like a terrible dream, a horror. Either I find my son in the morgue, or I find him in a serious state. It's horrific," she told the paper.

She explained that some of his friends had been located with injuries covering nearly half their bodies. "There are no words; they experienced a terrifying ordeal."

The Italian government has said that six of its nationals remain missing.

Included in that group is Emanuele Galeppini, a 16-year-old junior golfer, who hailed from Italy but now living in the UAE.

The national sporting body has said that he is no longer with us, without mentioning the fire, paying tribute to a "talented young man who embodied passion and authentic values."

His parent, reportedly stated that his son was at the bar and was last heard from around the new year. An official spokesperson has indicated that a formal confirmation of his death is awaited.

Other Cases

Giovanni Tamburi, 16, is likewise unaccounted for. His parent told reporters that he had been on vacation but had gone out with friends and ended up at the venue.

"A companion told me they fled after the fire started and that he had his phone with him, but then at a certain point he lost sight of him," she explained, adding he had been wearing a identifiable piece of jewelry.

One of his educators stated, "He was known for his good nature and smile, alongside great responsibility. Often ask if get me a coffee."

Alice Kallergis, who holds dual Swiss and Greek citizenship but lives full-time in Switzerland, was also present on New Year's Eve, according to media.

Her brother has shared an urgent request on social media, saying the relatives has had "no updates" regarding the teenager or the three friends she was with, who are also reported missing.

Consular authorities from her country of origin say they are closely watching the situation.