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An Australian is among the 115 persons hurt in a blaze that ripped through a busy tavern during a New Year’s Eve party in the Alpine resort town of Crans Montana, which resulted in 40 fatalities.

Government Statement on National Injured Person

A senior Australian government minister, Chris Bowen, confirmed on Friday morning that an Australian citizen was among the injured and was obtaining medical care and diplomatic support.

“This is undoubtedly a horrific, horrific tragedy and I am confident every Australian extends their sympathies to the Swiss people, the people involved,” Bowen told ABC RN radio.

He further stated, “I am able to verify an Australian was hurt and is receiving medical care and the family is being assisted, Australian consular support. I am unable to provide more specifics for confidentiality obligations. The individual's name is being withheld at this point.”

Diplomatic Assistance and Continued Efforts

The Australian DFAT verified early Friday it was providing consular assistance to the affected individual and their relatives.

A Dfat spokesperson said: “DFAT is currently offering consular support to the family members of an Australian citizen that has been hurt and is undergoing treatment following the fire. Because of our privacy commitments we are not in a position to give more details.”

The spokesperson added, “The department is pursuing immediate inquiries with Swiss officials to ascertain if any additional Australians were affected. Our team is ready to give consular help.”

Nature of Diplomatic Support

Diplomatic aid often encompasses:

• Communicating with or visiting local hospitals.
• Liaising with local authorities.
• Provision of lists of medical providers.
• Help in contacting relatives.

Details of the Tragic Fire

Authorities in Switzerland stated the blaze began around 1:30 a.m., local time, in a tavern favored by holidaymakers called Le Constellation, which is found in the downtown area of the alpine resort.

Video of the incident depicts orange fire raging from inside the first-floor establishment. Screams and loud music can be heard, and multiple persons were witnessed lying outside the building.

Some people who died in the blaze have not been able to be identified yet due to the severity of their burns.

Investigation into the Fire's Origin

Investigators stated it was not a case of arson for the blaze, which is thought to be the consequence of an unintentional act.

Advice for Worried Relatives

Citizens anxious regarding family members who may have been caught up in the fire were told to phone the Australian diplomatic emergency hotline on 1300 555 135.