A New Year's Eve celebration in a popular Swiss ski resort turned to tragedy in the early hours of Thursday morning after a deadly fire ripped through a bar, leaving 'several dozen' people presumed dead and scores injured.
Panic in the Alps: The Crans-Montana Blaze
The incident occurred at the Le Constellation bar in the upmarket resort town of Crans-Montana at approximately 1.30am on Thursday, 1 January 2026. The blaze caused widespread panic and chaos during what should have been a night of festivities. Disturbing footage captured by bystanders shows members of the public fleeing the scene in terror as flames took hold.
A Mounting Casualty Toll
Local police have confirmed a grim and developing situation. While the full scale of the disaster is still being assessed, authorities have stated that around 100 individuals were injured, with many in a serious condition. Foreign tourists are confirmed to be among the fatalities, highlighting the international appeal of the Alpine destination. Emergency services worked through the night in challenging conditions to tackle the fire and treat the wounded.
Aftermath and Ongoing Response
The cause of the fire is not yet known, and a major investigation is expected to follow. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the close-knit resort community and the wider Swiss nation. The incident raises immediate questions about safety protocols in crowded holiday venues during peak seasons. Our thoughts are with the families of all those affected by this horrific start to the new year.
