Devastating Fire at Swiss Alps Bar Leaves Dozens Dead During New Year’s Celebration
A tragic fire at a bar in the Swiss Alps during New Year’s celebrations has left dozens presumed dead and around 100 people injured, many of them seriously, authorities said Thursday.
Police confirmed that “several tens of people” lost their lives in the blaze at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana. “Work is underway to identify the victims and notify their families, but this process will take time,” said Valais Canton police commander Frédéric Gisler.
It remains unclear what caused the fire. Valais Canton attorney general Beatrice Pilloud said investigators have not yet been able to enter the wreckage, adding that there is no indication the blaze was caused by an attack. Officials described the incident as an “embrasement généralisé” — a firefighting term referring to a rapid and violent ignition of gases, similar to what is known in English as a flashover or backdraft.
“This evening should have been one of joy and togetherness, but it turned into a nightmare,” said regional government head Mathias Rénard. The local hospital’s intensive care and surgery units quickly reached full capacity due to the high number of victims. Helicopters and ambulances were dispatched to transport the injured, including foreign nationals, to nearby facilities.
Gisler said the community is “devastated” by the tragedy. Authorities have urged residents and visitors to exercise caution in the coming days to prevent further accidents, as medical resources in the area remain overwhelmed.
Crans-Montana, a resort town in the Valais Canton located about 40 kilometers north of the Matterhorn and 130 kilometers south of Zurich, had banned New Year’s Eve fireworks due to recent dry conditions. The municipality, home to 10,000 residents, lies at nearly 3,000 meters above sea level and is known for its skiing and golf events.
Crans-Montana will host the next Alpine Ski World Championships in February 2027 and is scheduled to welcome top downhill racers just weeks from now for their final competitions before the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics