King Charles III has spoken of his profound sadness following a catastrophic fire at a Swiss ski resort that claimed the lives of approximately 40 people during a New Year's celebration.
A Night of Celebration Turns to Tragedy
The devastating blaze broke out in the early hours of Thursday, 1 January 2026, at the Le Constellation bar in the popular Alpine resort of Crans-Montana. The venue, packed with revellers, was the scene of a New Year's party when the fire erupted less than two hours after midnight.
Authorities confirmed that around 40 people lost their lives, with a further 115 individuals injured, the majority of them seriously. Emergency services worked through the night, with officials stating they did not have an immediate exact count of the deceased due to the severity of the situation.
Royal Condolences and Praise for Responders
In a statement released on Thursday evening, the King conveyed his and the Queen's heartfelt sympathy. "My wife and I were appalled, and greatly saddened, to learn of the devastating fire last night in Crans-Montana, in Switzerland," he said.
Charles described the event as "utterly heartbreaking", noting that a night meant for celebration for young people and families had "instead turned to such nightmarish tragedy". He extended his deepest sympathy to all those affected by what is feared to be one of Switzerland's worst peacetime disasters.
The King's statement also paid tribute to the heroic first responders and emergency services, offering admiration for their selfless actions. "Our most heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with the loved ones of all those who have so tragically lost their lives and with those who remain in a critical condition in hospital," he concluded.
Scene of a Major Disaster
Crans-Montana, located in the Canton of Valais, is internationally renowned as a luxury destination for skiing and golf. The Le Constellation bar, typically a hub of social activity in the resort, has been transformed into the site of a national tragedy.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community and the wider international visitors who frequent the resort. Swiss authorities have launched a major investigation to determine the cause of the fire, which turned a crowded venue of revelry into a scene of devastation in a matter of moments.
