6 Killed in Suspected Deliberate Bus Fire in Switzerland

At least six people have died after a bus caught fire late Tuesday night in Kerzers, a small town in the canton of Fribourg in western Switzerland. Police believe the tragic incident may have been caused by a deliberate act by a passenger inside the vehicle.

The bus was traveling on a road in Kerzers, located about 20 kilometers from the Swiss capital, Bern, when it suddenly became engulfed in flames. Authorities say early findings suggest that a person on the bus may have intentionally started the fire.

Frederic Papaux, spokesperson for Fribourg police, said investigators have indications that the fire was deliberately caused by someone inside the bus. According to initial reports, a person may have poured fuel on themselves before the fire started.

Another police spokesperson, Christa Bielmann, said investigators are still examining the circumstances of the incident. She added that it is too early to confirm whether the fire was related to terrorism or any organized attack.

Emergency services quickly arrived at the scene, and several passengers were seen escaping from the burning bus in panic. Some of them suffered injuries during the incident.

Police confirmed that three injured people were taken to the hospital for treatment. Authorities also clarified that no other vehicles were involved in the incident.

After firefighters managed to control the blaze, video footage from the scene showed the bus completely burned and reduced to charred remains.

Swiss President Guy Parmelin expressed his condolences to the victims and their families. In a statement posted on X, he said the incident was shocking and deeply saddening, and assured that authorities are fully investigating the tragedy.

The incident has again raised concerns about fire-related disasters in Switzerland. Earlier this year, a major fire in the ski resort town of Crans-Montana also caused significant casualties, leaving dozens dead and injured.

Police have launched a full investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire and the events that led to the deadly incident. Authorities are expected to release more details as the investigation continues.