Fatal Fires in Crans-Montana Ski Resort and Gloucestershire Cottage Claim Multiple Lives
A tragic fire broke out in Le Constellation bar, a popular venue in the luxury ski resort of Crans-Montana, Switzerland, during New Year's Eve celebrations around 1:30am local time (0030 GMT) on January 1, 2026. The blaze resulted in approximately 40 deaths and injuring around 100 people, with victims from several countries. Identification of the deceased has been delayed due to severe burns. Authorities have stated there is no indication of terrorism or arson; however, the cause remains undetermined as access to the wreckage has not yet been possible. Eyewitnesses described a crowded bar engulfed in flames, with broken windows and a lingering smell of burning. Some reports suggest pyrotechnics during a concert might have sparked the fire, though this remains unconfirmed.
Valais hospitals were overwhelmed, declaring a state of emergency and rapidly reaching capacity in ICUs and operating rooms as the injured were transported to multiple facilities. Crans-Montana is located in the Swiss Alps, roughly 40 km northwest of Zermatt near the Italian border.
Meanwhile, in Gloucestershire, UK, a devastating fire on Boxing Day 2025 at a cottage in Brimscombe killed Nu (Fionnghuala) Shearman and their two children Eve, aged 7, and Ohner, aged 4, alongside the family dog Hutch. Tom Shearman, a Gloucestershire police officer and husband and father, survived the fire. He made valiant efforts to rescue his children by smashing his way out and attempting to enter their bedroom before being overwhelmed by flames.
Nu Shearman was known for running a bespoke handbag business specializing in fashion accessories made from leather and canvas. Eve was remembered for her love of books and writing, while Ohner was described as compassionate and eager to help others. Following the tragedy, GoFundMe donations supporting the Shearman family have exceeded £300,000.
Tom Shearman pledged to preserve the legacies of his wife and children, expressing gratitude to the community and emergency services for their support. In the wake of this heartbreak, he urged people to tell their loved ones they are loved and to embrace them.
