A devastating fire struck the popular Le Constellation bar at the Crans-Montana ski resort in Switzerland during New Year’s celebrations, leaving at least 40 people dead and around 100 injured, according to local authorities and international media.
The blaze broke out at approximately 1:30 a.m., when the bar was packed with tourists celebrating the arrival of 2026. Witnesses described scenes of panic as people tried to escape through narrow exits while the fire spread rapidly throughout the venue.
Emergency teams responded quickly, deploying helicopters, ambulances, and rescue units, but several nearby hospitals were overwhelmed by the number of injured victims. Authorities have ruled out a deliberate attack and are continuing to investigate the exact cause of the fire. Initial reports suggest it may have started accidentally, possibly linked to pyrotechnics or open flames near the wooden roof.
Why was this fire so devastating?
Because it occurred in a crowded venue during a festive celebration, making evacuation extremely difficult and significantly increasing the number of casualties, turning it into one of the worst tragedies in the recent history of the Alpine region.
