Crans-Montana, Switzerland, January 1, 2026 – A devastating fire ripped through the popular Le Constellation bar in the upscale Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana shortly after midnight on New Year's Day, killing approximately 40 people and injuring around 115 others, many with severe burns. Swiss authorities described the incident as one of the country's worst tragedies in recent history, with identification of victims expected to take days due to the condition of the bodies and the international mix of revelers.
Valais cantonal police reported a provisional toll of about 40 deaths and 115 injuries, emphasizing that figures remain subject to change as rescue and identification efforts continue. The blaze broke out around 1:30 a.m. local time (00:30 GMT) while hundreds were celebrating the arrival of 2026 in the crowded venue, known for its lively atmosphere, sports screenings, and basement dance floor popular among young locals and tourists.
Emergency response was swift and massive: dozens of ambulances, 13 helicopters, and over 150 medical personnel were deployed. A no-fly zone was imposed over the area to facilitate air evacuations. Victims were transferred to hospitals across Switzerland, including specialized burn units in Zurich, Lausanne, and Geneva, as local facilities in Sion and the Valais region quickly reached capacity. Some severely injured patients were also airlifted abroad.
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, in interviews with media outlets including Sky TG24 and RaiNews24, reported higher initial estimates of 47 deaths and noted significant Italian involvement. He stated that up to 16 Italians were missing, around a dozen were hospitalized with severe burns, and some had been transferred to Milan's Niguarda Hospital burn unit. Tajani appealed for families to contact Italy's crisis unit and expressed deep concern, planning a visit to the site. Ambassador Gian Lorenzo Cornado confirmed ongoing difficulties in accessing underground areas of the bar.
France reported at least nine citizens injured and eight missing, with transfers to hospitals in Paris and Lyon. Other nationalities, including British and potentially others, are likely among the victims given Crans-Montana's status as an international destination attracting skiers and holidaymakers from across Europe.
A criminal investigation, led by Valais prosecutors, is underway. Authorities have explicitly ruled out terrorism or deliberate arson. The leading hypothesis involves a generalized fire causing a flashover and subsequent deflagration (rapid combustion), possibly triggered by celebratory elements like champagne bottle sparklers igniting flammable ceiling materials. Forensic experts from Zurich have been enlisted to analyze the scene, witness statements, and footage. Prosecutor-General Beatrice Pilloud stressed that many details remain unclear and urged respect for victims' families amid speculation.
Eyewitness accounts described chaos: flames spreading rapidly, people smashing windows to escape, and survivors emerging into freezing temperatures with burned clothing. One survivor recounted seeing "horrible things that no one should ever have to see." Makeshift triage centers formed in nearby businesses, and informal vigils sprang up outside the cordoned-off site, with flowers, candles, and mourners gathering despite ongoing holiday activities on the slopes.
Swiss President Guy Parmelin visited the site, calling it "one of the worst tragedies" in national history and postponing his New Year's address. The government announced five days of national mourning. International condolences poured in, including from French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and Britain's Foreign Office.
Le Constellation, a longstanding venue with a capacity of around 300, was packed with a young crowd ringing in the new year. Crans-Montana, perched at 1,500 meters in the Valais Alps, is renowned for luxury, sunshine, and events like upcoming FIS Alpine Ski World Cup races. The tragedy has cast a shadow over the resort, known for attracting global visitors.
As investigations progress, a family helpline (+41 848 112 117) has been established. The incident highlights risks in crowded venues during high-season celebrations, prompting calls for swift findings to prevent future disasters.
