Pope prays for victims of Crans-Montana fire

In a telegram, Pope Leo XIV joined in mourning the victims of a fire on January 1 at an Alpine bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, which killed around 40 people and injured more than 110.

In the telegram — written in French and signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin — the Pope expresses his compassion and concern to those close to the victims.” 

Pope Leo “prays to the Lord to welcome the deceased into his dwelling of peace and light, and to support the courage of those who suffer in their hearts or in their bodies.”

“May the Mother of God, in her tenderness, bring the comfort of faith to all those affected by this tragedy and keep them in hope,” concludes the statement, addressed to Bishop Jean-Marie Lovey, of the Diocese of Sion, where the tragedy took place.

Around 40 people died and another roughly 115 were injured after a fire erupted at a New Year’s party in an Alpine bar, Le Constellation, in Crans-Montana, Switzerland. Authorities estimate that the fire broke out less than two hours after midnight and the causes are still under investigation. Several victims, which include also Italian and French nationals, are still unaccounted for and some are as young as 16-years-old.