What began as a vibrant New Year’s Eve celebration at Le Constellation bar in the upscale Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana quickly descended into horror shortly after midnight on January 1, 2026. Around 1:30 a.m., a fierce fire—initially reported as an explosion—engulfed the crowded venue, trapping hundreds of revelers inside. The bar, known for attracting a young crowd including teenagers and international tourists, was packed with partygoers welcoming the new year with music, dancing, and festivities.
Heroic Rescue Amid Devastation
Eyewitnesses described flames rapidly spreading across the ceiling, forcing desperate escapes through broken windows and doors. Videos captured scenes of panic, with people trampling each other and shouting for help. Bystanders and emergency services rushed to the scene, pulling victims to safety in the freezing Alpine night. Local residents provided warmth using restaurant curtains and tablecloths, while a nearby bank branch was converted into a makeshift triage center. Dozens of ambulances and helicopters airlifted the injured to hospitals across Switzerland, including specialist burns units in Lausanne and Zurich. Swiss authorities deployed massive resources, including 42 ambulances and 13 helicopters, highlighting the scale of the emergency.
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The tragedy claimed around 40 lives, mostly young people aged 16-26, with 115 others injured, many severely burned. Identification of victims has proven challenging due to the extent of injuries, a process expected to take days or weeks. Police have ruled out foul play, describing the incident as accidental. Switzerland has declared five days of national mourning, with President Guy Parmelin calling it one of the country’s worst tragedies. As flowers and candles accumulate at the site, the community grapples with profound grief amid the ongoing ski season.