At least 40 people have died and 115 others injured, many critically, after a fire swept through a bar in the popular Crans-Montana ski resort in southern Switzerland during New Year celebrations, authorities said.
The blaze broke out at approximately 01:30 local time (00:30 GMT) on New Year’s morning at Le Constellation, a longstanding bar in the resort. While officials have not yet confirmed the exact cause, they have ruled out any attack.
Emergency Response and Casualties
Regional police commander Frédéric Gisler said that the immediate priority is identifying the deceased to return their bodies to families as swiftly as possible. The emergency response was extensive: 13 helicopters, 42 ambulances, and 150 first responders were deployed to the scene.
Most of the injured sustained severe burns. Sixty victims were admitted to Sion Hospital, with a significant number in critical condition. The hospital’s intensive care unit is currently at full capacity, prompting authorities to urge the local community to avoid hospital visits unless absolutely necessary. Additional patients were transferred to hospitals in Lausanne, Zurich, and Geneva, which have specialist burns units.
“The fire broke out so intensely that burns can be internal. People breathed toxic smoke into the lungs,” said Dr. Robert Larribau of Geneva University Hospitals, noting that many patients were young, aged between 15 and 25.
How the Fire Spread
Experts described the blaze as a “flashover” incident, where flames rapidly engulf a room due to the intense heat and ignition of surrounding materials. Richard Hagger, president of the UK Association of Fire Investigators, explained that the thermal radiation from the fire can cause furniture and other flammable items to ignite within seconds, creating a fully engulfed room almost instantly.
International Impact
The victims include multiple nationalities. The Italian Foreign Ministry reported 16 Italian nationals missing and 12 to 15 hospitalized. The French Foreign Ministry said eight citizens were missing, with at least two confirmed injured. Some Italian patients with burns covering 30–40% of their bodies were evacuated to Milan’s Niguarda Hospital for specialized care.
Investigations Underway
Swiss authorities, including Attorney General Beatrice Pilloud, confirmed an investigation into the fire is ongoing. While rumors have circulated that champagne bottles with flares or narrow staircases may have contributed, no cause has been confirmed. Pilloud emphasized that a “general fire causing conflagration” is currently the leading theory. Witness interviews and phone data are being analyzed.
“At no time is there a question of any attack,” Pilloud said.
National and International Response
Swiss President Guy Parmelin described the fire as “one of the worst tragedies our country has experienced.” Vigils were held at Montana Station Church, and floral tributes were laid near the bar.
International leaders expressed condolences. The UK Foreign Office said consular staff were on standby, while King Charles and Queen Camilla described the tragedy as “utterly heartbreaking.” French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed injured citizens were being treated in French hospitals. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated the EU is assisting Swiss authorities with medical aid through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism.
Crans-Montana, known for its luxury ski resorts and history of hosting World Cup skiing events, is now grappling with a tragedy that has deeply affected residents, visitors, and families across multiple countries.
Families seeking assistance can contact the helpline at +41 848 112 117.
