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Five missing after fire in Swiss Alpine town

BBC World · 2026-08-21

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: A fire in Thusis, Switzerland, destroyed a restaurant with apartments, leaving five people missing and eight others injured. • Why it matters: The incident highlights the dangers of fire in residential buildings and has prompted a significant emergency response, including nearly 100 firefighters. • What to watch next: Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire and are focused on locating the missing individuals, with updates expected as the situation develops.

**Five Missing After Fire in Swiss Alpine Town of Thusis**

Thusis, Switzerland – A devastating fire has engulfed a restaurant with attached apartments in the Swiss town of Thusis, resulting in five individuals being reported missing and eight others sustaining injuries. The incident occurred shortly after midnight local time on Friday, prompting a swift response from local emergency services.

According to the Graubünden cantonal police, the fire is believed to have originated on the second floor of the building. The cause of the blaze remains under investigation as authorities work to piece together the events leading up to the disaster.

Nearly 100 firefighters were deployed to the scene to combat the flames, which completely destroyed the structure. The situation was complicated by the collapse of the stairwell, necessitating the use of a crane to access the roof and extinguish the fire effectively.

Among the fourteen individuals who managed to escape the building, two were reported to have sustained serious injuries, while two others suffered moderate injuries. Four individuals experienced minor injuries and were treated at various hospitals in the surrounding areas, including Chur, Thusis, Ilanz, and Zurich.

The Graubünden region, known for its picturesque landscapes and outdoor recreational activities, attracts numerous tourists year-round. Thusis, situated in this popular Alpine destination, is particularly favored for winter sports and summer nature exploration.

As the investigation continues, local authorities are urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward. The community is rallying to support those affected by the fire, as the search for the missing individuals remains a top priority for emergency services.

Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available regarding the cause of the fire and the status of the missing persons.

Source: BBC World
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