A devastating fire at a crowded bar in the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana has turned New Year’s celebrations into a national tragedy. Authorities have confirmed that approximately 40 people lost their lives and over 100 others were injured when a blaze tore through the “Le Constellation” nightclub in the early hours of January 1, 2026.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Timeline of the Disaster
- 1:30 AM: During the peak of New Year’s Eve festivities, a fire ignited inside the packed venue.
- Rapid Spread: Within seconds, the fire reached the wooden interior and acoustic ceiling panels, causing a “flashover” that trapped hundreds of guests inside.
- Emergency Response: Local fire crews and mountain rescue teams arrived within minutes, but the intensity of the heat and smoke made rescue efforts extremely difficult.
Preliminary Investigation
While the Swiss federal police are still conducting a forensic analysis, initial reports point to a tragic accident involving indoor pyrotechnics.
- The Spark: Witnesses claim that sparklers attached to champagne bottles came into contact with flammable decorations or low-hanging wooden beams.
- The Venue: Investigators are looking into whether the bar exceeded its legal capacity and if emergency exits were clearly marked and accessible.
Casualties and Medical Crisis
The scale of the disaster has overwhelmed local infrastructure:
- Injuries: 115 people are being treated for smoke inhalation and severe burns.
- Medical Airlifts: Critically injured patients have been airlifted to specialized burn centers across Zurich, Lausanne, and Milan.
- International Impact: Victims include many international tourists, prompting coordination between the Swiss government and various foreign embassies.
National Mourning: President Guy Parmelin has declared five days of national mourning, stating, “The heart of Switzerland is broken today. Our thoughts are with the families of those who will never return from their holiday.”
