What began as a night of celebration in one of Switzerland’s most glamorous ski resorts ended in tragedy after a massive fire tore through a packed bar in Crans-Montana during New Year’s celebrations. Swiss police have confirmed that the blaze, which killed dozens and injured many more, was not a terrorist attack, even as the country struggles to process one of its worst peacetime disasters in recent memory.
The fire broke out shortly after midnight at Le Constellation, a popular bar where hundreds of people had gathered to welcome the New Year. Panic spread within minutes as flames and smoke engulfed the venue, trapping revellers inside and triggering a desperate rush for safety.
“Several tens of people are presumed dead and around 100 injured, most of them seriously,” police said, declining to provide exact figures as rescue teams continued identification efforts.
What Happened at the Crans-Montana Bar on New Year’s Night?
Witnesses described scenes of chaos as the fire spread rapidly through the crowded space. Many inside the bar were tourists celebrating the New Year in the Alps, while others were residents enjoying the festive atmosphere. Authorities said the sheer number of people inside the venue made evacuation extremely difficult.
Investigators have stressed that it is still too early to determine how the fire started. However, officials made it clear that terrorism has been ruled out, urging the public to avoid speculation as forensic teams examine the site.
Emergency Response Pushes Hospitals to the Limit
Swiss authorities launched an immediate and large-scale emergency response. Helicopters ferried the injured to hospitals across the region, while ambulances, firefighters, and police worked through the night to control the blaze and rescue survivors.
The number of casualties quickly overwhelmed nearby medical facilities. Intensive care units and operating theatres reached capacity within hours. Officials set up a reception centre and emergency helpline to assist families searching for loved ones and to coordinate information as identities are confirmed.
Foreign Nationals Among the Dead and Injured
Police confirmed that victims include people from multiple countries, reflecting Crans-Montana’s status as an international tourist hotspot. Many visitors had travelled to the resort specifically for the New Year celebrations.
Italy’s foreign ministry said Swiss police believe around 40 people were killed and about 100 injured, although Swiss authorities have yet to officially confirm those figures. Consular teams are working closely with Swiss officials to assist affected foreign nationals.
Fire Cause Still Unknown, Area Sealed Off
Authorities have sealed off the area surrounding the bar and imposed a temporary no-fly zone over Crans-Montana to ensure uninterrupted emergency and investigation operations. Swiss media reports suggested the fire may have started during a New Year’s concert involving pyrotechnics, but police have cautioned against concluding.
Investigators continue to examine debris, surveillance footage, and witness accounts to determine the exact cause of the blaze.
Crans-Montana is home to around 10,000 residents and is one of Switzerland’s most famous Alpine resorts. Located about 40 kilometres north of the Matterhorn, the town is known for its ski slopes, vibrant nightlife, and large New Year crowds. The scale of the disaster has shocked both locals and visitors, casting a shadow over what is usually a festive season.