Authorities in Switzerland are investigating a devastating bus fire that resulted in the deaths of at least six individuals in the town of Kerzers. The incident occurred on Tuesday evening and is believed to have been a deliberate act, although police have found no evidence linking it to terrorism. The bus, operated by PostBus, was transporting passengers and mail when it erupted into flames, causing panic and chaos.
Frédéric Papaux, a spokesperson for the Fribourg police, confirmed that investigators suspect that a person on board may have doused themselves in fuel and ignited a fire. "At this stage, we have evidence suggesting a deliberate act by a person who was inside the bus," said Papaux. Public prosecutors have since opened a criminal investigation into the incident. In addition to the six fatalities, five others were injured, with two victims reported to be in serious condition. Originally reported by The Guardian.
Details of the Incident and Victims
The bus fire broke out in Kerzers, a small town located approximately 12 miles (20km) west of the Swiss capital, Bern. Eyewitness accounts describe a scene of horror as flames quickly engulfed the vehicle. Witnesses reported seeing a man pouring petrol before setting himself ablaze, with one individual recalling, "Everything happened so quickly - and then within moments everything was in flames." The intense heat from the fire even caused the bus's tires to explode, sending debris flying up to 200 meters away.
Emergency services responded swiftly, working tirelessly late into the night to manage the aftermath. Images shared on social media depicted tall flames shooting from the bus's windows, while video footage captured the charred remains of the once-vibrant yellow vehicle. Police are currently unable to confirm whether the suspected arsonist was among those who perished in the fire, and identifying the victims could take several days.
Community Reaction and Official Responses
Swiss President Guy Parmelin expressed his condolences to the families affected by the tragedy, stating, "I am shocked and saddened that people in Switzerland have once again lost their lives in a serious fire." The incident recalled memories of a horrific New Year's Eve fire in Crans-Montana, which claimed 41 lives and injured 115 others. Fribourg police's communications chief, Martial Pugin, also highlighted the distressing nature of the event, noting that while an intentional act was the most likely scenario, there was currently no evidence of a terrorist motive.
Local residents and witnesses have voiced their shock and sadness at the event. Hans-JĂĽrg Stocker, a nearby resident, described the scene as "awful," recounting the screams of injured individuals as they sought help. Meanwhile, Nirosan Vickneswaran anxiously awaited news of his cousin who was on the bus, stating, "We don't know if he's injured or worse." The emotional toll on the community is palpable, with many feeling a deep sense of loss.
Investigation and Safety Concerns
As investigations continue, authorities are meticulously examining the circumstances surrounding the fire. Romain Collaud, a member of the Fribourg state council, confirmed that the bus involved was not electric, ruling out the possibility of an electrical fault. "It was a bus with a combustion engine," he stated. The PostBus service is an essential part of rural life in Switzerland, with around half a million passengers relying on it daily, including schoolchildren and those in remote areas.
Stefan Regli, the chief executive of PostBus, expressed his devastation at the tragedy, stating, "It is a terrible tragedy that occurred yesterday. Like me, all the employees of PostBus and Swiss Post are shocked." The safety of passengers and the community remains a priority, and authorities are committed to uncovering the full details of this shocking incident.
As the investigation unfolds, the community of Kerzers is left to grapple with the aftermath of this tragic event. With safety protocols under scrutiny and the emotional weight of the loss felt throughout Switzerland, the hope is that answers will emerge soon. The resilience of the community will likely be tested in the days ahead as they seek to heal from this heartbreaking event.
Originally reported by The Guardian. View original.