A British-educated teenage girl and her father are among those missing and feared dead following a horrific fire that ripped through a bar in the Swiss Alps on New Year's Eve.
Search Continues for Missing Duo
Charlotte Niddam, believed to be 15 years old, and her father, Jerome Niddam, have not been heard from since the inferno engulfed the establishment in the popular resort of Crans-Montana in the Valais region. The devastating blaze broke out in the early hours of 31 December, with emergency services facing a fierce and rapidly spreading fire.
Swiss authorities have confirmed the death toll stands at a minimum of 40 people, making it one of the deadliest fires in the country's recent history. Rescue and recovery operations have been ongoing at the scene since the tragedy unfolded.
British Links to Alpine Tragedy
While the full details of Charlotte's background are still emerging, it is understood she received part of her education in the United Kingdom. This connection has brought the Alpine tragedy closer to home for many in Britain, as the international community reels from the scale of the loss.
The local community in Crans-Montana and the wider Swiss nation are in a state of shock and mourning. The bar was reportedly busy with revellers celebrating the arrival of the New Year when the fire started. The exact cause of the blaze remains under investigation by Swiss police and fire experts.
Ongoing Investigation and International Response
The search for victims and the process of identification continues, a painstaking task for the authorities involved. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has stated it is in contact with the Swiss authorities and stands ready to provide support to any affected British nationals.
This remains a breaking news story, with further updates on the investigation, the final casualty figures, and the fate of Charlotte and Jerome Niddam expected in the coming hours and days. Our thoughts are with all the families and friends of those caught up in this terrible event.
