Swiss authorities are examining whether an intentional act sparked a deadly bus fire that claimed at least six lives in a town near the country’s capital.
Frédéric Papaux, a police spokesperson for the Fribourg region, confirmed that investigators are looking into whether a “voluntary act” triggered Tuesday evening’s blaze in Kerzers, located approximately 15 miles west of Bern.
The incident also left five people wounded and brought back memories for residents of a devastating New Year’s Eve fire at the Swiss ski destination of Crans-Montana that claimed 41 young lives.
Christa Bielmann, a Fribourg police representative, explained to Swiss broadcaster SRF: “There is information circulating that a person poured flammable liquid over themselves on the bus and that this caused the fire. But this is part of the ongoing investigation and is being clarified.”
Swiss President Guy Parmelin expressed his grief on X Tuesday evening, writing: “It shocks and saddens me that once again people have lost their lives in a serious fire in Switzerland. The circumstances are being investigated. I offer my condolences to the families of those who died in Kerzers. And my thoughts are with the injured and the rescue workers.”
Martial Pugin, communications chief for Fribourg cantonal police, ruled out terrorism as a motive when speaking to broadcaster RTS Wednesday morning.
The transit vehicle belongs to PostBus, which operates under the national postal service. Swiss media footage captured flames consuming the entire bus.
PostBus released a statement expressing their sorrow: “We are deeply moved by this tragic news. Our thoughts are with the victims, the injured, and all their families.”
Regional officials reported that emergency responders discovered the vehicle completely consumed by fire upon arrival at the scene.
Medical teams transported three critically injured individuals to area hospitals via ambulance and helicopter, while two others received treatment at the location, according to police reports.
Papaux confirmed the death toll of at least six people, noting that victim identification may require several days to complete.
Crews removed the destroyed bus overnight, and normal traffic flow resumed by Wednesday morning.
