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Dozens feared dead after blaze engulfs Swiss nightspot
Emergency crews in the southern Swiss resort of Crans-Montana are responding to a devastating fire that erupted early Thursday at a popular bar, leaving several dozen people presumed dead and over 100 injured, authorities confirmed.
Casualties and response
At a morning press briefing, police stated that "several dozen" fatalities are feared, though an exact toll remains unconfirmed. The Italian foreign ministry, citing Swiss authorities, later reported an estimate of around 40 deaths.
Approximately 100 individuals sustained injuries, primarily severe burns. Most victims were transported to Valais Hospital, where the intensive care unit has reached capacity. A specialized burns unit in Milan, Italy, has been placed on standby to assist.
Emergency services deployed ten helicopters, 40 ambulances, and 150 personnel to the scene. Officials are prioritizing the identification and repatriation of remains, a process expected to take weeks due to the extent of injuries, according to the Italian ambassador to Switzerland.
Nationalities involved
Victims are believed to include citizens from multiple countries. French media reported at least two injured French nationals, while the UK Foreign Office confirmed consular staff are on standby to support any affected British citizens. French President Emmanuel Macron extended "France's full solidarity and fraternal support" to Switzerland.
Cause and eyewitness accounts
Regional chief prosecutor Beatrice Pilloud confirmed the incident is being treated as an accidental fire, with no indication of an attack. Security official Stéphane Ganzer clarified that an explosion occurred as the fire spread, not the reverse, dismissing earlier speculation about explosives.
Two French witnesses, Emma and Albane, who were inside the bar at the time, told BFMTV they saw a waitress place a birthday candle atop a champagne bottle. "One candle was held too close to the wooden ceiling, which ignited instantly. Within seconds, flames engulfed the entire ceiling," they recounted. They described the evacuation as chaotic, citing narrow stairwells and limited escape routes.
Timeline and venue details
Smoke was first reported at 01:30 local time (00:30 GMT), prompting immediate emergency calls. Police and rescue teams arrived rapidly, initiating a large-scale response.
The fire occurred at Le Constellation, a long-standing bar in Crans-Montana. While the resort is known for its upscale reputation, the venue itself was described as a casual, high-capacity space. The establishment features an upstairs area with TV screens for sports and a spacious downstairs bar, typically crowded with patrons drinking and dancing. With a capacity of up to 300 people, the bar was likely packed for New Year's celebrations.
Support for affected families
A helpline has been established for concerned relatives: +41 848 112 117.
