At least 40 people were killed during a New Year’s Eve celebration in the Swiss Alps, Switzerland, after a fire tore through a crowded bar in the resort town of Crans-Montana. Authorities fear the death toll may increase, as the number of people seriously injured currently stands at more than 100.
Reports say that the blaze broke out shortly after the new year began, around 1:30 a.m., at Le Constellation, a popular nightlife spot packed with revellers welcoming 2026. Authorities described the incident as an unprecedented tragedy.
Emergency crews arrived within minutes, but the scale of the fire and the number of people inside quickly overwhelmed responders. By early morning, the injured had been transported to hospitals across the country. A temporary no-fly zone was later established over the area to facilitate the more efficient evacuation of patients by helicopters.
According to a statement from Swiss President Guy Parmelin, the victims included many young people, Swiss residents, and tourists from other countries. “Behind these numbers are faces, names, families, and destinies brutally interrupted,” he said.
Investigators are still working to determine how the fire started. Valais canton attorney Beatrice Pilloud said there was no indication of an attack, stressing that police are investigating, but it does not point to anyone. While officials believe a general fire may have triggered an explosion, they have ruled out any deliberate act.
Among the survivors is sixteen-year-old Axel Clavier, who spoke to The Associated Press about losing his loved ones. Calvier, who was visiting from Paris, said one of his friends died, and others were unaccounted for. Calvier said that he saw champagne sparklers moments before the fire erupted, which left him in shock.
Videos circulating online showed thick smoke pouring from the building as people screamed and ran toward the scene. Nearby restaurants and hotels were evacuated as firefighters battled the flames.
Authorities have set up a reception centre and helpline for families seeking information about loved ones, as identification efforts continue. Out of respect for the victims, President Parmelin postponed a traditional New Year’s address, while tributes and condolences poured in from across Switzerland and beyond.
