Crans-Montana, Switzerland – A tragic fire has claimed the lives of “several people” and left others injured at a bar in the popular Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana during New Year’s Eve celebrations. Emergency services are still on the scene responding to the devastating incident that began around 01:30 local time at Le Constellation bar.

Swiss police have confirmed fatalities and injuries following what they initially described as an explosion at the establishment. While the precise cause of the fire remains unknown, local reports have suggested the involvement of pyrotechnics, though this information is currently unconfirmed.

Le Constellation bar, known for its capacity to hold up to 300 people and featuring a small terrace, was undoubtedly bustling with revelers ringing in the new year. However, authorities have yet to provide exact figures on how many individuals were inside when the blaze erupted. The bar typically closes at 02:00 local time, just 30 minutes after the fire began, though it’s unclear if it was scheduled to remain open later for the 2026 celebrations.

What We Know So Far:

  • Fatalities and Injuries: “Several people” have been confirmed dead, with others sustaining injuries.

  • Location: The incident occurred at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, a highly frequented ski resort in the Valais region of Switzerland.

  • Time of Incident: The blast and subsequent fire took place at approximately 01:30 local time during New Year’s Eve festivities.

Unanswered Questions:

  • Exact Number of Casualties: The precise number of fatalities is still pending, with an update from police expected shortly.

  • Nationalities of Those Involved: The nationalities of the victims and injured parties have not yet been released.

  • Cause of the Explosion/Fire: While pyrotechnics are a rumored cause, this remains unconfirmed by official sources.

  • Crowd Size: The exact number of patrons in the bar at the time of the fire is unknown, though police have indicated to local media that it was over 100 people.

This is a developing story, and further information is anticipated as emergency services continue their efforts and an official investigation gets underway. The community of Crans-Montana, and indeed Switzerland, mourns this tragic start to the new year.