A deadly fire tore through Le Constellation, a popular bar in the Crans-Montana ski resort, during New Year celebrations. Police reported an initial explosion at about 1:30 a.m. and said several people were killed and injured. About 100 people were inside the venue; Swiss media have reported much higher casualty estimates (unverified). Authorities closed the area, imposed a no-fly zone and launched an investigation into the cause.
Deadly New Year Blaze Tears Through Crans-Montana Bar; Dozens Feared
Local media said the toll could be heavy (MAXIME SCHMID)(MAXIME SCHMID/AFP/AFP)
A deadly fire ripped through Le Constellation, a popular bar in the Crans-Montana ski resort, in the early hours of New Year’s Day, killing and injuring multiple people, authorities said.
What Happened
Police in the Wallis canton said the blaze began at the bar — frequented by tourists and locals — at about 1:30 a.m. (0030 GMT) following an initial explosion of unknown origin. A police statement described the incident as a “fire of undetermined origin.”
Venue, Attendance and Witness Accounts
The Crans-Montana website lists Le Constellation’s capacity as about 300 people plus space for 40 on its terrace. Police said roughly 100 people had gathered inside for New Year celebrations. A tourist filmed bright orange flames pouring from the building and reported seeing people running and screaming in the darkness.
Casualties and Reports
Authorities confirmed several deaths and multiple injuries, and said a major emergency response was underway. Swiss media outlets cited sources suggesting the casualty toll could be much higher — one regional paper reported around 40 dead and 100 injured — but those figures have not been independently verified by police.
Response and Restrictions
A large contingent of police, firefighters and rescue teams responded immediately. The area was closed to the public and authorities imposed a temporary no-fly zone over Crans-Montana while operations continued. Ambulances and emergency crews remained at the scene hours after the blaze, and witnesses reported the smell of burning and shattered windows.
Investigation
Some Swiss media suggested the fire may have been triggered by pyrotechnics used during a concert, but police emphasized that the cause is currently unknown and an investigation is ongoing.
“Several people lost their lives and others were injured,” the police statement said, describing the situation as serious and under active management.
Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area and to rely on official updates as investigators work to establish the cause and confirm casualty figures.
