Swiss New Year Nightmare: A deadly blaze tore through a packed bar in Crans-Montana, killing around 40 revellers and injuring 115. The Alpine town declared five days of national mourning after the horror at Le Constellation.
‘Unprecedented Horror’ Rocks Crans-Montana
President Guy Parmelin slammed the tragedy as “one of the most traumatic events in Switzerland’s history.” He mourned the young lives lost, calling it “a drama of an unknown scale.” Parmelin vowed the nightmare must never repeat.
The fire broke out at 1:30am, sparked by sparklers or flares stuffed into champagne bottles by bar staff. Flames raced up the ceiling, engulfing the crowded basement nightclub packed with teens. Panic spread as hundreds scrambled to escape a narrow, smoke-filled stairwell.
Thousands Mourn, Rescue Efforts Race On
Hundreds braved freezing temperatures to lay flowers and light candles for victims, many still missing or badly hurt. Local ski instructor Ulysse Brozzo, 16, said friends were inside and some remain unaccounted for. “It’s a total tragedy. Hundreds were inside,” he said.
Survivors shared chilling clips of roaring orange flames and victims lying motionless outside the burning venue.
Investigation Launched as Families Face Devastation
Authorities are probing candles or shisha sparks as potential causes. The prosecutor confirmed an ongoing inquiry and criticised the dangerously narrow basement stairs.
Police labelled the incident “unprecedented,” deploying 42 ambulances, 13 helicopters, and multiple fire crews. Hospitals nationwide treat mainly 16 to 26-year-olds with severe burns and lung injuries. Eight are critical.
DNA testing helps identify victims, with several Italian and French nationals among the missing and injured.
Luxury Resort in Shock After Party Turns Fatal
Crans-Montana, a posh Alpine getaway favoured by Europe’s wealthy, saw its popular budget-friendly bar Le Constellation reduced to ashes. The two-floor venue’s basement nightclub trapped many as flames and smoke spread rapidly.
Locals say age checks at New Year’s events were lax, and shisha smoking common. Firefighters described the blaze as an embrasement généralisé — a violent, flashover fire.
The Valais canton president lamented, “What should have been a moment of celebration turned into a nightmare.” As the resort mourns, officials urge vigilance to prevent further disasters amid strained medical services.
