CRANS-MONTANA, SWITZERLAND – A catastrophic fire tore through a crowded ski‑resort bar in the early hours of New Year’s Day, killing dozens of people and injuring around 100 more, most of them seriously, authorities said Thursday. The blaze erupted during New Year’s Eve celebrations at an upscale resort frequented by visitors from several countries, turning a night of festivities into one of the deadliest peacetime disasters in recent Swiss history.
Fire Erupts in Packed Bar After Midnight
Swiss police reported that the fire began at approximately 1:30 a.m. local time inside “Le Constellation,” a popular bar in Crans‑Montana, a fashionable ski destination in southwestern Switzerland. Witnesses initially described what sounded like an explosion, but officials later said the blaze appeared accidental and not linked to any attack.
Video from the scene showed flames quickly engulfing the building as patrons ran for safety, some screaming in panic. Firefighters and police were confronted with chaotic conditions when they arrived, according to Stephane Ganzer, head of security for the canton of Valais. Emergency responders worked through the night to rescue victims and transport the injured.
Scores Dead, Many From Multiple Countries
Swiss authorities declined to provide an exact death toll but confirmed that “tens” of people were presumed killed. The Italian foreign ministry, citing information from Swiss police, said there were about 40 confirmed deaths among the victims, though that figure has not been officially verified by Swiss officials. Around 100 people remain injured, many with severe burns, Cantonal Police Chief Frederic Gisler told reporters.
Ambulances formed long lines while helicopters airlifted seriously wounded victims to specialist hospitals in Geneva, Lausanne, Zurich and Sion. The province and national authorities mobilized more than 40 ambulances and 10 helicopters to assist, and a no‑fly zone was imposed over Crans‑Montana to facilitate rescue operations.
Two young women speaking to France’s BFM TV described seeing the fire originate in the bar’s basement area after a bottle holding “birthday candles” was held too close to the wooden ceiling. Flames spread rapidly across the ceiling, they said, leaving little time for escape before parts of the structure became engulfed.
Fire Appears Accidental, Probe Underway
Local officials have said the blaze seems to have been triggered by an accidental ignition, possibly involving fireworks or sparklers inside the crowded club. Italy’s ambassador to Switzerland, Gian Lorenzo Cornado, said authorities had told him that someone lighting a firework inside the bar may have set the roof alight. Prosecutor Beatrice Pilloud confirmed a full investigation has been opened into the cause of the fire. Early findings do not suggest any link to terrorism or deliberate attack.
Outside the bar, forensic tents and white screens shielded the scene as authorities worked to identify victims and recover remains. Investigators warned that the process of identifying badly burned bodies could take considerable time, and families of missing persons were urged to contact a helpline set up by officials.
National and International Reactions
Swiss Federal President Guy Parmelin expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy on social media, saying what was meant to be a joyful start to the year had turned “into mourning that touches the entire country.” Leaders from neighboring Italy and Germany also issued condolences for the victims and their families.
Locals in Crans‑Montana were left shaken, with some visiting the scene in tears or placing flowers at makeshift memorials. Resident Karine Spreng told reporters she was trying to reach a friend who had been inside the bar, saying, “I’m very worried. I can’t reach her.”
Ongoing Rescue and Identification Efforts
Medical teams and specialized burn units in multiple Swiss cities have been treating those injured, while cantonal police coordinate identification and forensic work. Prosecutor Pilloud stressed that authorities are prioritizing returning remains to families as soon as possible, saying extensive resources were being devoted to analysis and victim support.
Authorities also urged the public to stay clear of the area as rescue and investigative operations continue.
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