Witnesses describe chaotic initial response to deadly Swiss resort fire

Bystanders and locals step into the breach

Dominic Dubois, who arrived at the scene around 1:00 a.m. local time, reported seeing just one or two police cars initially. "First responders were not here yet," he said, explaining that local residents, nearby restaurants, and bystanders immediately improvised aid, providing water, tea, and blankets to victims suffering in freezing temperatures outside the burning building.

An unprecedented local tragedy

Eva, a 30-year resident of the area, called the fire an unprecedented event. "For my remembrance, I see things like that for the first time," she stated, noting the particular tragedy that most victims were likely young people visiting the popular mountain resort for the holiday celebrations. The last victim was reportedly evacuated around 5:30 a.m.

Ongoing investigation into the cause

Swiss authorities confirmed the casualty figures on Thursday and stated a criminal investigation is underway. Prosecutors are examining several hypotheses, with the current leading theory being a sudden, generalized conflagration. The identification process continues, with officials noting that foreign nationals are likely among the victims due to the international nature of the resort.