UPDATE: A devastating fire at the upscale Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, has left 40 people dead and injured over 115 others during a New Year’s Eve party. Among the injured is an Australian, whose family is receiving consular support from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
The tragic incident unfolded just after midnight on January 1, 2024, with initial reports indicating an explosion. However, authorities now believe the fire was an accident, potentially caused by a lit candle igniting the wooden ceiling. Swiss President Guy Parmelin called it “one of the worst tragedies our country has ever known,” emphasizing that most victims were young people celebrating the new year.
“What was a moment of joy turned into a tragedy felt across the country and beyond,”
Parmelin stated on social media. The Swiss Federal Council expressed its deepest condolences to the victims and their families.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes as flames rapidly engulfed the bar, with video footage verified by Reuters capturing the fire spreading from the building. Two young French women, Emma and Albane, recounted how they saw the fire ignite in the basement after a birthday candle was held too close to the ceiling.
“We climbed a narrow staircase to escape, but the fire spread across the ceiling super quickly,” Emma told BFM TV.
Local police chief Frederic Gisler reported that efforts are underway to identify the victims and inform their families. The community is left “devastated” by the loss, and Italian authorities have confirmed that 16 Italians are missing, with several others hospitalized.
As investigations continue, the Australian government remains in contact with Swiss officials to ascertain whether more Australians were affected. “We stand ready to provide consular assistance,” a spokesperson for the foreign affairs department stated.
Tributes and flowers have been left at the site, a popular venue for tourists and young people. This horrifying event has sent shockwaves through the community and beyond, highlighting the urgent need for safety measures in public places.
As details emerge and investigations progress, the world watches closely, hoping for answers and healing for all affected by this tragic incident.
