'Trapped in a Dreadful Dream': Families of Missing Teenagers Await News After Ski Resort Fire

Unaccounted teen photo
16-year-old Swiss national Arthur Brodard is among the missing.

The loved ones of teenagers missing after a devastating fire at a venue in a Switzerland's ski resort are enduring an painful wait for official news and pleading for any details about their loved ones publicly.

The fire engulfed the a popular bar in Cans-Montana, located in the mountains of south-west Switzerland, in the small hours of January 1st. Confirmed images depict the roof structure being engulfed in flames as bottles with fireworks are held aloft.

Authorities have stated that it could take an extended period to formally name the those who perished of the fire, which resulted in the death of four dozen individuals and wounded another over a hundred. A spokesperson stated on Friday that 113 of the those hurt have been identified, with work still underway to identify the other six.

In the interim, loved ones have been using social media to plead for clues about their missing relatives who were present at the venue that evening.

Appeals for the Missing

The whereabouts of Swiss national Arthur Brodard, 16, are currently unknown, according to an appeal from his parent.

The who lives of a town near the city, told a local newspaper that she had gone back to Lausanne to see if he was in the medical facility, while his father did the equivalent search in the capital, but could not find him.

"I'm living a nightmare, a nightmare. Either I find my son in the morgue, or I find him in intensive care. Words cannot describe it," she stated.

She added that some of his companions had been discovered with injuries covering nearly half their bodies. "It's unspeakable; they endured a terrifying ordeal."

The Italy's government has indicated that a number of of its citizens have not been located.

Unaccounted teen portrait
Junior golfer Emanuele Galeppini, sixteen, was last in contact around the turn of the new year on December 31st, as stated by.

Among them is Emanuele Galeppini, a 16-year-old sportsman, originally from Italy but now living in Dubai.

The national sporting body has released a tribute that he is dead, without directly referencing the fire, paying tribute to a "talented young man who carried with him dedication and true sportsmanship."

His parent, is quoted as saying that his son was at the bar and was last in contact around the new year. An representative has stated that a official announcement of his death is still pending.

Further Cases

Giovanni Tamburi, 16, is likewise unaccounted for. His mother said that he had been on vacation but had ventured out with a group and found himself at the venue.

"Someone with him informed me they fled after the fire broke out and that he had his mobile with him, but then at a certain point he lost sight of him," she explained, adding he had been wearing a distinctive gold chain.

One of his teachers said, "I remember his good nature and smile, combined with great responsibility. Often ask if help out."

Alice Kallergis, who holds dual Greek and Swiss citizenship but lives permanently in the country, was also present on that night, according to media.

Her brother has shared an appeal on social media, saying the family has had "no news" regarding the 15-year-old or the three friends she was with, who are also reported missing.

Officials from her country of origin say they are closely watching the developments.

Sonya Williams
Sonya Williams

Elara is a passionate writer and digital storyteller with over a decade of experience in blogging and creative nonfiction.