17-Year-Old Italian Golfer Identified Among Victims of Swiss Resort Bar Fire

Emanuele Galeppini, a 17-year-old Italian golfer, was among the first victims identified after a fire at the Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, Swiss authorities and Italian media reported.

The Italian Golf Federation confirmed his death, calling him “a young athlete who embodied passion and authentic values” and adding, “Emanuele, you will forever remain in our hearts.”

Mr. Galeppini, from Genoa, had been living in Dubai with his family and attended the Swiss International School there, where he was due to graduate next year, according to the World Amateur Golf Ranking and Italian reports.

Italian newspapers said his family last spoke with him at midnight on New Year’s Day. His father, Edoardo Galeppini, called repeatedly after news of the blaze and his parents traveled to regional hospitals searching for him.

He maintained connections to his local club near Genoa, the Rapallo Golf and Tennis Club. The club’s director, Fabrizio Pagliettini, described him as “a talented young man, an absolute example of excellent ethics and sportsmanship,” and said he was among the best Italian players under 18.

Key Topics

Health, World, Switzerland, Fire, Italy, Golf, Crans-montana