UPDATE: A devastating fire at the Le Constellation bar in the upscale Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana has left 40 people dead and 115 injured, with the tragedy unfolding during a New Year’s Eve celebration just after 1:30 AM on January 1, 2024. Authorities report that the blaze erupted amidst a packed crowd, predominantly comprised of young revelers.
Local officials describe the incident as “one of the worst tragedies our country has ever known.” The Swiss President, Guy Parmelin, expressed deep sorrow, highlighting the young age of many victims. Eyewitness accounts detail harrowing scenes of chaos as patrons attempted to escape the rapidly spreading flames.
Video footage, verified by Reuters, shows flames engulfing the bar, sparking panic as people rushed for safety. Witness Samuel Rapp, a 21-year-old local, recounted, “There were people screaming, and then people lying on the ground, probably dead.”
The fire’s origin is still under investigation, but initial reports suggest an accident rather than an intentional attack. Eyewitnesses indicated that the fire may have started in the basement after a bottle of “birthday candles” was held too close to the wooden ceiling. Two French women, Emma and Albane, told France’s BFM TV they narrowly escaped the inferno, witnessing the flames spread quickly overhead.
Authorities confirmed that among the missing are 16 Italians, with many more hospitalized, prompting a coordinated response from local and international officials. The head of local police, Frederic Gisler, stated that identifying the deceased will take significant time due to the severity of the burns.
Local prosecutor Beatrice Pilloud has launched an investigation into potential safety violations at the bar, which is owned by a French couple. She remarked, “There are still many circumstances to be clarified… The most likely scenario at present is that a widespread fire caused an explosion.”
The scene has since been cordoned off as forensic teams work diligently to gather evidence. Early Thursday morning, groups of people were seen mourning outside the bar, a stark contrast to the celebratory atmosphere just hours earlier.
First responders faced chaos upon arrival, with Stephane Ganzer, head of security for Valais canton, describing the situation as “dramatic.” The tragedy has resonated across Switzerland and beyond, marking a painful start to the new year.
As the investigation continues, officials urge the public to remain patient as they gather more information about the victims and the circumstances leading to this heartbreaking event. The resort, known for its luxury boutiques and vibrant nightlife, now finds itself in mourning as the community grapples with the loss.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
