Tahirys Dos Santos Suffers 30% Burns After Rescuing His Partner From Fire
He is 19, survived a devastating blaze and is now fighting to recover after a selfless act that has moved the football world.
A Tragedy That Shook Switzerland
New Year’s Eve ended in tragedy in Switzerland. A fire at a bar-nightclub in the ski resort of Crans-Montana claimed 40 lives and left more than 110 people injured, with early investigations pointing to human negligence as the cause.
Among the victims is Tahirys Dos Santos, a 19-year-old footballer developed in the academy of FC Metz, who was seriously injured in the incident that occurred on January 1.
Back Into the Flames to Save Her
At the time of the fire, Dos Santos was on the first floor of the venue and managed to escape as the flames spread. Once outside, he realized his girlfriend had not made it out.
Without hesitation, he made a desperate decision: he went back into the burning building to rescue her. Both survived, though they suffered severe injuries.
“Not Only a Victim, but a Hero”
The player’s agent, Christophe Hutteau, recounted the dramatic episode in an interview with BFMTV, highlighting the defender’s courage.
“He came out of the flames and, when he realized his girlfriend was still inside, he went back in to pull her out. Beyond being a victim, Tahirys is a hero.”
A Delicate Condition, With Encouraging Signs
Hutteau confirmed that Tahirys Dos Santos sustained burns to around 30% of his body and stressed that his condition remains painful and fragile.
“We can’t say he’s doing well, because he is suffering greatly. But his breathing capacity has improved significantly, despite the lung damage,” he explained.
To ease the strain on Swiss hospitals, Dos Santos was transferred on January 1 to a specialized medical center in Stuttgart, Germany, where he continues intensive treatment.
Support From FC Metz
FC Metz released an official statement expressing deep shock and offering full support to the player and his family.
“Directors, players, coaches and staff are all thinking of him during these hours as he battles through his suffering.”
As of Monday, January 5, neither the club nor his agent has reported any major change in his medical condition.
Who Is Tahirys Dos Santos?
Tahirys Dos Santos is a defender for Metz’s reserve team, which competes in National 3, the fifth tier of French football.
Last season, he featured in a friendly with the first team and, on December 20, received his first official call-up for a Coupe de France match, though he has yet to make his competitive debut.
