Swiss police now believe around 40 people have died in the fire at a bar in a Swiss ski resort, according to foreign media reports.
Authorities said the victims could not be immediately identified due to the severity of burn injuries sustained in the blaze, which broke out at a popular bar in Crans-Montana during New Year celebrations.
The fire erupted in the early hours of Thursday at the Le Constellation bar, a venue frequented by young people and tourists. About 100 others were injured, with several nationalities believed to be among the victims.
Swiss officials said the cause of the fire remains under investigation. While police initially referred to a possible explosion, prosecutors later said there was no indication the incident was an attack.
Emergency services and investigators continue recovery and identification efforts, with authorities warning that the death toll could change as inquiries progress.
