At least six people have died and several others were injured after a bus caught fire in western Switzerland, according to police authorities.
The incident occurred around 18:25 local time in the centre of Kerzers, located about 20 km from the capital Bern.
Emergency services rushed to the scene after reports of a bus engulfed in flames. At least three people were taken to hospital, and reports indicate that one rescuer was also injured while responding to the blaze.
Authorities say the cause of the fire remains unknown, and investigators are examining whether the incident may have been deliberately started.
Some early reports suggested that an individual may have poured gasoline on themselves before the fire began, but officials said this information has not yet been confirmed.
Video shared by local media showed the bus fully ablaze, with thick smoke rising into the sky as emergency crews worked to contain the fire.
The bus involved had reportedly travelled from the Düdingen area before arriving in Kerzers.
Following the tragedy, Swiss President Guy Parmelin expressed condolences, saying the incident “shocks and saddens me that people have lost their lives in a serious fire in Switzerland.”
Authorities say the investigation into the cause of the deadly fire is continuing.
