CRANS‑MONTANA, SWITZERLAND
A New Year’s Eve celebration at a Swiss ski resort ended in tragedy as a fire swept through a crowded bar in Crans‑Montana, killing 40 people and injuring more than 100 others, authorities confirmed. The blaze broke out around 1:30 a.m. local time at Le Constellation, a popular venue where tourists and locals had gathered to ring in 2026. Emergency responders described the scene as chaotic, with flames spreading rapidly and patrons struggling to escape through limited exits.
Preliminary investigations indicate the fire was likely sparked by sparklers attached to champagne bottles, which ignited flammable ceiling and insulation materials. Officials said the fire spread with extreme speed, trapping many inside the basement nightclub. Witnesses recounted frantic attempts to break windows and force doors open as smoke and flames engulfed the crowded space.
Swiss authorities have confirmed the death toll at 40, with victims ranging in age and nationality, including young adults and international tourists. At least 119 people sustained injuries, many with severe burns and smoke inhalation, and are being treated in specialized burn units across Switzerland and neighboring countries. Identification of the deceased is ongoing due to the severity of the injuries.
President Guy Parmelin described the incident as one of the worst recent tragedies in Swiss history, expressing condolences and calling for a thorough investigation. Local officials have also initiated criminal proceedings, investigating possible negligent homicide and failures in fire safety protocols. Authorities are examining whether emergency exits were accessible, if fire extinguishers were properly in place, and whether the bar exceeded its legal occupancy limit.
Heroic efforts by individuals at the scene reportedly saved lives, with some patrons guiding others to safety despite the chaos. Emergency services, including police, firefighters, medical personnel, ambulances, and helicopters, were rapidly deployed to manage the crisis and evacuate the injured.
The fire has sparked international concern, as Crans‑Montana is a renowned ski and tourism destination. Local authorities have extended support to families affected and are conducting a comprehensive review of fire safety regulations in nightclubs and hospitality venues. The bar’s owners have stated they believed safety measures were adequate and are cooperating with investigators.
As the community mourns, officials have emphasized the need for accountability and prevention of similar tragedies in the future. The incident casts a somber shadow over what was meant to be a celebratory start to the new year, leaving families and the wider public grappling with loss and questions about safety standards in public venues.
This tragedy underscores the dangers posed by flammable decorations and overcrowding, and Swiss authorities have pledged to strengthen enforcement of safety regulations to prevent a repeat of such a devastating event.
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