Fire at Le Constellation nightclub in Switzerland kills 40 and injures 119 on New Year’s Day 2026
A fire broke out at the Le Constellation nightclub in Crans-Montana, Valais, Switzerland, on New Year’s Day 2026, resulting in 40 deaths and 119 injuries.
Authorities stated that sparklers placed on champagne bottles too close to the ceiling likely triggered the blaze.
Valais Attorney General Beatrice Pilloud announced that the investigation will examine the materials used, fire safety measures, venue capacity and occupancy, and compliance with building regulations.
The inquiry will consider prosecutions if faults are found and those involved are alive.
So far, 113 people among the dead and injured have been formally identified, including 71 Swiss, 14 French, 11 Italians, and 4 Serbs.
Among the injured is 19-year-old French footballer Tahirys Dos Santos, who was severely burned and airlifted to Germany for treatment.
Approximately 50 injured individuals have been or will be transferred to European burn centers for specialized care.
Le Constellation has a capacity of up to 300 people; however, the exact number of people inside at the time of the fire remains unknown.
A ceremony for national mourning is planned for 9 January in Crans-Montana, and support centers have been established for families of the missing.
