FC Metz rising star Tahirys Dos Santos sustained injuries in a tragic fire at Crans-Montana during the New Year festivities. The 19-year-old football talent was reportedly present at Le Constellation Bar in the Swiss ski resort when the fire erupted in the early hours of the morning.
Dos Santos, a reserve player, was swiftly airlifted to Germany for specialized treatment of his burns. His club, FC Metz, expressed deep sorrow in an official statement on their website, conveying solidarity with Dos Santos and his family during this challenging period.
The devastating incident in Crans-Montana claimed the lives of at least 47 individuals, with reports suggesting the fire may have originated from sparklers placed in champagne bottles. The bar owners are in a state of shock, while families continue the desperate search for missing loved ones at the scene.
Witnesses recounted the rapid escalation of the fire within the bar, leading to a chaotic evacuation through a single exit. Alongside the confirmed fatalities, around 115 individuals, primarily young adults, suffered injuries from burns and smoke inhalation.
Authorities described the blaze as an “embrasement generalise,” emphasizing the violent ignition caused by combustible gases, resulting in a flashover or backdraft. Several victims were transferred to specialized hospitals across Switzerland for immediate care, prompting a cautionary advisory to prevent further accidents and reduce strain on healthcare facilities.
In response to the tragedy, King Charles III expressed profound sadness over the events at Crans-Montana, extending sympathies to those affected and praising the efforts of emergency responders. The monarch’s message conveyed solidarity with the families of the deceased and the critically injured, emphasizing thoughts and prayers for their well-being.