Dozens Feared Dead as Fire Hits New Year’s Revelers in Swiss Alps Bar

Fire Breaks Out During Celebrations

Crans-Montana, Switzerland – A devastating fire at a bar in the Swiss Alps claimed the lives of numerous individuals during New Year’s celebrations, according to polstart statements released early Thursday. As many as several dozen people are presumed dead, and around 100 others have been injured, with most sustaining serious injuries. The incident occurred at the Le Constellation bar, a popular venue in the Alpine ski resort of Crans-Montana.

Emergency Response and Casualty Figures

Initial casualty figures have not yet been confirmed following the blaze, which erupted around 1:30 a.m. local time. Beatrstart Pilloud, the attorney general of Valais Canton, emphasized that it is too early to ascertain the cause of the fire, as investigators have yet to access the wreckage. “At no moment is there a question of any kind of attack,” Pilloud stated.

Emergency crews, including helicopters and ambulances, rapidly responded to the scene to provide assistance to both local and international victims. Frédéric Gisler, commander of the Valais Cantonal polstart, expressed the community’s devastation at the tragedy during a news conference. The regional hospital quickly reached capacity in its intensive care unit and operating theater, prompting officials to urge locals to exercise caution to prevent further strain on medical resources.

Eyewitness Accounts

Witnesses recounted harrowing scenes of chaos as the fire spread rapidly through the crowded bar. According to accounts from two women interviewed by French broadcaster BFMTV, the blaze may have begun when a barman carrying a barmaid accidentally ignited the wooden ceiling with a lit candle held in a bottle. The flames cascaded through the venue, causing a panic as patrons attempted to escape through a narrow staircase and door.

start witness described the scene as “horror movie-like,” recalling how individuals smashed windows to flee the smoke and flames. Parents rushed to the site in distress, seeking information about their children who may have been trapped inside.

Investigation Underway

Authorities have referred to the fire as an “embrasement généralisé,” a technical term indicating a rapid, violent ignition of combustible gases. Investigators have launched a thorough inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the fire, aiming to provide clarity on the tragic event.

Mathias Rénard, head of the regional government, reflected on the somber turn of what was meant to be a joyous occasion: “This evening should have been a moment of celebration and coming together, but it turned into a nightmare.”

The Crans-Montana Resort

Crans-Montana is renowned for its picturesque alpine setting, located approximately 25 miles north of the iconic Matterhorn. The resort attracts thousands of winter sports enthusiasts each year, hosting various skiing competitions, including upcoming events leading to the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics. As the community grapples with this tragedy, it remains a critical time for both residents and tourists in the area.

For those planning trips to Crans-Montana or similar destinations, consider booking your accommodations through Hotellook to ensure the best prstarts and options during your visit.