A devastating fire and explosion at a bar in the Swiss ski resort town of Crans-Montana has left dozens of people dead and around 100 injured during New Year’s Eve celebrations. The tragedy unfolded in the early hours of January 1, 2026, turning what was meant to be a joyful moment into one of the worst holiday disasters in recent Swiss history.
What Happened
Around 1:30 a.m. local time, a powerful blaze erupted at Le Constellation, a popular bar and nightclub in central Crans-Montana, during a packed New Year’s Eve party. Police reported that the fire spread rapidly through the venue, followed by at least one explosion, causing catastrophic destruction inside. More than 100 people were inside at the time, including many tourists and international visitors.
Casualties and Injuries
Authorities have confirmed that approximately 40 people have died and about 115 others were injured, many seriously with severe burns and smoke inhalation injuries. Officials emphasize that these figures are still being confirmed as rescue and identification efforts continue, and the death toll could rise. Regional hospitals were quickly overwhelmed by the influx of critically wounded victims. Medical facilities in nearby cities such as Sion, Lausanne, Geneva, and Zurich have received transfers of burn patients requiring intensive care. Some countries’ consular services have reported that their citizens are among the injured and deceased.
Emergency Response
Swiss emergency services mobilised an extensive response to the crisis. Firefighters, police, and medical teams from across the Valais canton converged on the scene, supported by helicopters, ambulances, and rescue personnel. A temporary no-fly zone was imposed above Crans-Montana to facilitate rescue operations. Authorities also established support centers and hotlines to assist families seeking information about loved ones. Roads around the resort were closed to secure the area and control traffic, leading to disruptions for tourists and local residents.
Cause and Investigation
At this stage, officials have ruled out terrorism or deliberate wrongdoing. The exact cause of the fire and subsequent explosion remains under investigation. Early inquiries are focusing on whether the blaze might have been triggered by pyrotechnic effects, sparklers, or other ignition sources used during celebrations, but no definitive conclusion has been reached. Swiss prosecutors and fire investigators are conducting a detailed forensic examination of the site, which has been compromised by intense heat and structural damage. Investigators are interviewing survivors and staff, and reviewing building safety systems and fire prevention measures.
Impact on the Resort
Crans-Montana is a high-profile luxury ski destination in the Swiss Alps, known for its world-class slopes, nightlife, and New Year festivities. The disaster has cast a sombre mood over the resort, prompting a state of emergency declaration by local authorities to coordinate ongoing relief and investigative efforts. While ski lifts and other tourism services continue to operate, large areas remain cordoned off and under a heavy police presence. Travel disruptions have affected roads and local transport, and many holidaymakers witnessed emergency activity as they arrived or tried to leave the area.
National and International Response
Swiss leaders expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, with officials describing the loss as a national shock. Countries with citizens affected by the incident have deployed diplomatic support and are assisting families with consular services and repatriation efforts.
