Images have surfaced revealing the interior of a bar in a popular Swiss ski resort where a significant number of individuals have lost their lives. Approximately 40 people are presumed to have perished and about 100 are wounded following a fire that engulfed the bar, Le Constellation, in Crans-Montana, Valais, Switzerland during New Year celebrations. No victims have been formally identified yet, but it is suspected that tourists may be among those affected. Witnesses recount scenes of numerous casualties being evacuated after the fire tore through the establishment, which is predominantly located in a basement with a single entrance and exit.
Le Constellation, a renowned establishment in the region, is known for its purple lighting and central bar, attracting a youthful clientele as a longstanding institution for over 40 years. Reports suggest an explosion may have preceded the fire around 1:30 am, potentially due to a firework, although authorities refrain from speculating on the cause at this stage.
Frederic Gisler, police commander for Valais Canton, reported that emergency responders swiftly secured the site, set up support services for victims and families, and established a helpline for assistance. The injured, numbering around 100 with some in critical condition, are being cared for, while several dozen fatalities have been confirmed. The main street in Crans is currently closed for investigative purposes.
Efforts are ongoing to identify the victims and notify their families, a process expected to take time before precise figures can be provided. Crans-Montana, nestled in the Swiss Alps, is strategically located near iconic peaks like the Matterhorn and Zurich, boasting an elevation of nearly 3,000 meters and a population of 10,000 residents. The municipality, formed in 2017 through a merger of multiple towns, spans from the Rhône Valley to the Plaine Morte glacier.
As a prominent venue for Alpine skiing events, Crans-Montana is slated to host the World Cup championships in February 2027 and remains a key location for international golf tournaments, such as the European Masters held at the Crans-sur-Sierre club each August.