Leonardo Bove, 16, Transferred to Milan’s Niguarda Hospital After Crans-Montana Blaze
Milan, January 12 – A 16-year-old Milanese boy, Leonardo Bove, who suffered severe injuries in the devastating fire at ‘Le Constellation’ in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, was successfully transferred to Niguarda Hospital in Milan on Sunday evening. The teenager, who had been receiving treatment at a Zurich hospital, was deemed transportable by Swiss medical authorities.
Helicopter Transfer Amidst Weather Challenges
The transfer, originally scheduled for Sunday afternoon, was temporarily delayed due to adverse weather conditions. However, a suitable weather window allowed for the operation to proceed. Leonardo arrived at Niguarda Hospital around 8:00 PM, transported by an Areu helicopter from the Bergamo base, accompanied by a medical team. He is currently being treated for burns covering 50% of his body and injuries resulting from the inhalation of poisonous fumes.
Guido Bertolaso, the Lombardy Welfare Councilor, had earlier confirmed the transfer, stating, “We received the green light from the Swiss doctors for the transfer of the injured Milanese boy, and the weather conditions offer a useful window for the journey.”
Twelfth Victim of Crans-Montana Tragedy Treated in Milan
Leonardo Bove is now the twelfth victim of the Crans-Montana tragedy to be treated at Niguarda Hospital. All patients are reported to be in serious condition and remain under guarded prognosis. The incident has sparked a significant wave of solidarity, with over 70,000 euros raised for Leonardo in just 24 hours.
The fire at the ‘Le Constellation’ nightclub on January 19, 2024, resulted in multiple casualties and injuries. The ongoing investigation into the cause of the fire continues, with authorities working to determine the circumstances that led to the tragic event.
Ongoing Investigations and Calls for Justice
The Crans-Montana incident has drawn significant attention, with calls for justice and accountability. Italian President Sergio Mattarella visited the injured in Zurich and conveyed his condolences, emphasizing the need for justice following what he described as an “immense tragedy.”
The victims being treated at Niguarda Hospital include classmates from the Virgilio school, a mother from Belluno, and a 14-year-old from Varese, who is the youngest patient. The identification of victims has been a complex process, with DNA analysis used to confirm identities, including that of another 16-year-old Milanese boy, Kean, who was in a coma in Zurich.
Community Support and Future Outlook
The transfer of Leonardo Bove marks a significant step in his recovery journey, bringing him closer to his family and allowing for specialized care in Milan. The outpouring of community support highlights the profound impact of the Crans-Montana tragedy and the collective hope for the recovery of all those affected.
As investigations continue and victims receive medical attention, the focus remains on providing comprehensive care and support to those grappling with the aftermath of this devastating event.
