Golf Prodigy Emanuele Galeppini Among Dead in Swiss Ski Resort Fire
Tragedy struck at a Swiss ski resort as 17-year-old golf sensation Emanuele Galeppini was confirmed among the first victims of a deadly New Year’s fire. The Italian prodigy from Genoa was making waves across Europe and the Middle East as a rising star in golf.
Just last April, Emanuele clinched victory at the 2025 Omega Dubai Creek Amateur Open. He also competed in prestigious events like the King Hamad Trophy in Bahrain and the UAE Cup in Al Ain, marking him as one to watch on the international circuit.
Italian Golf Federation Pays Heartfelt Tribute
The Italian Golf Federation took to social media to mourn the loss of their promising athlete:
“The Italian Golf Federation mourns the passing of Emanuele Galeppini, a young athlete who carried with him passion and authentic values. In this moment of great sorrow, our thoughts go to his family and to all those who loved him. Emanuele, you will remain forever in our hearts.”
Swiss officials are still identifying other victims of the blaze, warning that the process will take time amid the chaos.
Deadly Blaze Devours Le Constellation Bar, Claims Dozens of Lives
In the early hours of New Year’s Day, a ferocious fire tore through the Le Constellation bar, a hotspot for revelers celebrating 2026. Flames tore through soundproofing material, trapping partygoers in narrow corridors.
- Between 40 and 47 people have died.
- More than 115 injured, many critically.
- Most victims were young, with many in their teens and twenties.
Embassies scrambled to identify their nationals. Italy reports 16 missing citizens; France counts eight missing, fearing more could be among the dead.
Switzerland Declares Mourning as Survivors Suffer Severe Burns
Burn victims aged 15 to 25 were rushed to specialist hospitals in Lausanne, Zurich, and Geneva for treatment of severe, often third-degree burns. Doctors describe the injuries as horrifying.
The nation declared five days of mourning. Hundreds gathered at the site, lighting candles and laying flowers to honour those lost in this devastating tragedy.
