Six people killed in Swiss bus fire believed to be self-immolation incident

A bus fire in the Swiss town of Kerzers on Tuesday resulted in at least six fatalities and five injuries. The incident occurred near the center of the town, approximately 12 miles from Bern, the capital city.

According to Raphael Bourquin, public prosecutor for Fribourg canton, a witness statement suggests that a man, of Swiss origin, boarded the bus carrying bags and set himself on fire using a flammable substance. Bourquin stated that there is no evidence to suggest this was a terrorist act.

The victims were aged between 17 and 65. The police investigation found that the man who allegedly caused the fire was likely among those who died. He was described as a marginalized and disturbed individual by his family, who had recently reported his disappearance.

Initial findings indicate that the incident occurred when the man boarded the bus in Duedingen at around 5:45 pm CET and set himself on fire in Kerzers at about 6:25 pm local time. The blaze spread throughout the vehicle, causing injuries to those on board.

Police have stated that initial hearings and witness testimony suggest the incident was a voluntary act without ideological motivation. Swiss President Guy Parmelin expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and offered support to the injured and rescue workers.

Investigations are ongoing, with officials reviewing social media footage and CCTV to understand the motives behind the man’s actions. Interviews are expected to take place, and a hotline has been opened for witnesses to come forward. A criminal investigation has also been launched by public prosecutors.

Source: Al Jazeera