Source HT
CRANS-MONTANA, SWITZERLAND – A horrific fire ripped through a crowded bar in the luxury ski resort town of Crans-Montana early Thursday morning, killing at least 40 people and injuring 115 others in what officials are calling one of the worst tragedies in Swiss history.
The blaze broke out at approximately 1:30 AM at Le Constellation, a popular nightspot in the heart of the Alpine resort, as hundreds of young revelers were celebrating the start of the New Year.
The Disaster Unfolds
Eyewitnesses described a scene of festive joy that turned into a “living nightmare” in seconds. According to preliminary reports, the fire may have been ignited by pyrotechnics or sparklers attached to champagne bottles being served to guests. Witnesses reported that the flames quickly caught the wooden ceiling of the basement level, triggering a “flashover”—a sudden and violent ignition of combustible gases.
Casualties: Valais Cantonal Police Commander Frederic Gisler confirmed the toll, noting that many of the 115 injured are in critical condition with severe burns and smoke inhalation.
The Victims: Swiss President Guy Parmelin stated that the population at the bar was “quite young,” consisting mostly of teenagers and young adults from various nationalities.
Emergency Response: A massive rescue operation involving 10 helicopters, 40 ambulances, and over 150 first responders was launched immediately. Hospitals in the region reached capacity, forcing several victims to be airlifted to specialized burn units across Switzerland.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have cordoned off the center of the resort and imposed a no-fly zone to facilitate the ongoing forensic investigation.
Beatrice Pilloud, the Attorney General of Valais Canton, emphasized that while the investigation is in its early stages, there is no evidence of a terrorist attack. “Currently, we are favoring the theory of an accidental fire,” she told reporters at a press conference on Thursday.
National Mourning
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through Switzerland and the international skiing community. President Parmelin has announced that national flags will fly at half-mast for five days to honor the victims.
“What was a moment of joy turned into a tragedy that is felt across the country and beyond,” Parmelin said. “Our thoughts are with the families who have had their destinies brutally interrupted.”
Identifying the deceased is expected to take several days due to the severity of the fire. A church service was held in Crans-Montana Thursday evening, where hundreds gathered in silence to light candles and lay flowers near the site of the charred building.
