Several dozen people are feared dead and about 100 others injured after a deadly fire broke out at a crowded bar in the Swiss ski resort town of Crans-Montana during New Year celebrations.
The fire started at around 1:30am on New Year’s Day at Le Constellation, a popular bar located in one of Europe’s top ski destinations. Police, firefighters, and emergency responders rushed to the scene as flames spread rapidly through the packed venue.
According to police commander Frederic Gisler from the Wallis canton, many of the injured were in serious condition. Hospitals in the region were quickly overwhelmed and declared a state of emergency, forcing authorities to transfer victims to hospitals across Switzerland.
Witnesses described scenes of panic and fear. A tourist from New York told AFP that he saw bright flames shooting out of the bar as people ran and screamed in the darkness. Nearby residents said they heard sirens and helicopters throughout the night.
Le Constellation bar can hold up to 300 people indoors and another 40 on its terrace. Police earlier said about 100 people had gathered there to celebrate the New Year. Authorities have not yet confirmed the exact number of deaths, noting that the victims may include people of different nationalities, as the resort attracts tourists from around the world. At least two French citizens were among the injured.
Investigators said it was too early to determine the exact cause of the fire, but early reports suggest it may have started after pyrotechnics were used during a concert. Police ruled out any attack and closed off the area completely, also imposing a no-fly zone over Crans-Montana.
Local media reported broken windows, ambulances still parked at the scene hours later, and a strong smell of smoke lingering in the air. Residents said the festive mood quickly turned into shock and silence as news of the tragedy spread.
Authorities have launched a full investigation as the country mourns one of the deadliest New Year tragedies in recent years.
