A deadly fire tore through a popular bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana in the early hours of New Year’s Day, leaving several dozen people presumed dead and more than 100 injured. The blaze at Le Constellation bar erupted around 01:30 local time, engulfing the venue within minutes and triggering a major rescue operation, as authorities scrambled to evacuate survivors and tend to the critically injured.

How Many Were Injured and Killed?

Several dozen people are feared dead, although officials have not yet confirmed an exact number. The Italian foreign ministry, citing Swiss authorities, estimated that around 40 people may have died.

Over 100 people sustained injuries, most with severe burns. The majority were admitted to Valais hospital, where intensive care units have reached full capacity. A specialised burns unit in Milan, Italy, has also been made available. Authorities warned that identifying the victims could take weeks due to the severity of injuries.

Emergency services responded swiftly, deploying ten helicopters, 40 ambulances, and 150 personnel to the scene. Rescue teams worked throughout the night to evacuate survivors and manage the chaotic aftermath.

Cause of the Fire

The precise cause of the fire remains under investigation, but authorities have ruled out any deliberate attack. Beatrice Pilloud, the region’s chief prosecutor, said the blaze itself caused the reported explosions as it spread rapidly through the bar.

Two French nationals who were present during the fire described the incident to local media. They said a birthday candle placed on a champagne bottle touched the wooden ceiling, igniting the fire within seconds. “In a matter of seconds, the entire ceiling was ablaze. Everything was made of wood,” they said. Witnesses reported that evacuation was extremely difficult due to narrow stairways and exits.

About Le Constellation Bar

Le Constellation is a long-standing bar in the upmarket resort of Crans-Montana, capable of holding up to 300 people. The venue has a lower floor for dancing and drinking and an upper area where patrons watch football. The resort attracts both local and international tourists, and the bar was likely crowded at the time of the fire, as it was during the busy New Year holiday period.

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International Reactions

Several countries have expressed concern and offered support. French President Emmanuel Macron extended France’s “full solidarity and fraternal support” to Switzerland. The UK Foreign Office said consular staff were on standby to assist any British nationals affected by the tragedy.

Helpline for Families

Authorities have set up a dedicated helpline for concerned families: +41 848 112 117.

The fire has cast a sombre shadow over the start of 2026, with rescue teams continuing efforts to care for survivors and identify the victims. Investigations into the exact cause of the blaze are ongoing, as authorities work to prevent similar tragedies at public venues across the region.