The Crans-Montana ski resort fire has left survivors trapped inside the inferno at La Constellation bar, with authorities confirming a large number of young people among the casualties. The fire, which broke out around 1:30 am on January 1, has left many young revelers trapped while trying to escape via a narrow staircase. The exact death toll remains unknown, with police estimating around 40 people killed and 115 injured. The bar was packed with young people celebrating New Year's Eve, and reports indicate some were trapped while trying to escape via a narrow staircase. The fire was caused by a 'flashover', where all combustible materials in an enclosed room ignite at the same time, according to Swiss authorities. The inferno was so intense that it burned through the bar's ceiling, and at least one explosion was heard during the blaze, although authorities have ruled out a terror attack. The fire has sparked controversy over the safety measures in place at the resort, with many questioning how such a tragedy could have occurred. The resort is known for its luxury shopping and high-end restaurants, attracting scores of wealthy foreign tourists during the ski season. The Australian government is making 'urgent inquiries' to determine if any citizens were caught up in the blaze. The most serious cases among the injured were taken to Lausanne University Hospital, about 90 minutes' drive away. The fire has also left 16 Italians missing, while 12 more were taken to hospital with injuries. The tragedy has left many questioning the safety of young people at such events, and the Swiss government has described it as 'one of the worst tragedies our country has ever experienced'. The identification of the dead will take time, with many victims unidentifiable due to the severity of their burns.
