Deadly Fire at Le Constellation Bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland on New Year's Eve
A tragic fire broke out at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, located in the Valais canton of Switzerland, during the transition from New Year’s Eve into New Year’s Day. The blaze resulted in approximately 40 fatalities and around 115 injuries.
Video footage from inside the venue captured the rapid spread of the fire along the ceiling, causing panic as patrons scrambled to escape via stairs while burning material fell. A bystander was seen attempting to extinguish the flames using a shirt. Many of the victims are reported to be young, with several French and Italian citizens among those injured or missing.
Identification of the victims has been complicated by severe burns, necessitating the use of dental and DNA records. Officials expect the process of identification to take several days. At least eight French and six Italian individuals are reported missing among the injured.
Authorities have ruled out terrorism and confirmed no suspects are involved. While the precise cause of the fire remains unknown, two leading theories have emerged: one involving an indoor firecracker and another suggesting a bartender using a candle inside a bottle may have been responsible.
Emergency response efforts were extensive, involving 13 helicopters, 42 ambulances, 150 paramedics, and 70 firefighters. Victims were airlifted to Lausanne University Hospital for treatment. Among the severely burned is 19-year-old French FC Metz youth player Tahirys Dos Santos, who is receiving care in Germany.
Italy’s foreign minister, Antonio Tajani, is planning to travel to Crans-Montana in light of the many Italian victims. King Charles III expressed his sadness and extended condolences to Switzerland following the tragic event.
