Deadly Fire at Le Constellation Bar in Crans-Montana Kills About 40 on New Year's Day 2026
A devastating fire broke out at the Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, around 1:30 a.m. on New Year's Day, 2026, as partygoers were celebrating the arrival of the new year.
Authorities reported about 40 fatalities and 115 injuries resulting from the blaze. Many of the injured were treated in hospitals in the Valais region, while some were transported by air to medical facilities in Zurich and Lausanne. Patients in Lausanne ranged in age from 16 to 26 years.
Emergency services responded with approximately 40 ambulances and around 10 helicopters. A UBS branch was repurposed to provide shelter and function as a triage center for victims.
Initial eyewitness accounts suggested the fire may have been sparked by a sparkler near the ceiling or other unknown causes, but officials emphasized that it was premature to determine the exact cause, and there were no arrests or suspects at the time.
Fire officials described the event as an "embrasement généralisé," with flames rapidly spreading across the ceiling and resulting in a flashover-like phenomenon. Many attendees panicked, attempting to escape through a door and staircase, while others broke windows in their effort to flee.
Le Constellation is a large basement venue well-known for its popularity among young crowds, including under-18s, who were drawn to the New Year's celebrations.
Swiss President Guy Parmelin visited Crans-Montana following the tragedy and announced five days of flags at half-mast along with a period of national mourning and reflection, noting that many victims were young.
By the afternoon, the scene remained crowded with emergency responders as families awaited news. Forensic teams worked behind screens, and local vigils were held with flowers to honor the victims.
