Italian golf prodigy among several Italian victims in Crans-Montana nightclub fire

Rome– At around 1:30 a.m. on New Year’s Day, a fire and explosion tore through the Constellation Bar, a long established nightclub in the Swiss ski resort of Crans Montana, leaving at least 47 people dead and over 100 injured.

Among the confirmed victims is Emanuele Galeppini, a 17 year old Italian golf champion from Genoa. Galeppini had initially been reported missing, and his death was confirmed by the Italian Golf Federation, which called him “a young athlete who embodied passion and authentic values.”

Italian authorities are investigating several other presumed Italian victims. At least five additional Italians remain unconfirmed due to the severity of their injuries and difficulties in identification. Galeppini’s body was identified after his mobile phone was recovered inside the club, highlighting ongoing concerns in Italy over young nationals attending events at the resort.

Swiss investigators have ruled out terrorism. Early reports suggest the fire may have been sparked by candles placed on champagne bottles or by a firework, causing a rapid deflagration in the club’s basement during a live concert. The venue’s single emergency exit proved inadequate, forcing some patrons to break windows to escape.

Hospitals across Switzerland, including Lausanne, Zurich, Geneva, and Sion, are treating burn victims, with around 40 in serious condition. The canton of Valais has declared a state of emergency, while Italy has offered medical support via its specialised burns unit at Milan’s Niguarda Hospital.

Swiss President Guy Parmelin pledged a full investigation, saying the country “owes the truth to the victims and their families.” Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani warned that identification of victims could take days or even weeks, with a helpline now available for relatives.

While the overall death toll stands at 47, the focus for Italian authorities remains on the national victims, particularly the young people who had travelled to the Swiss resort for New Year’s celebrations.

PS