Deadly fire at Crans-Montana bar during New Year celebrations
A bar fire in Crans-Montana that took place during New Year celebrations has left many people dead and around 100 injured at a popular Swiss Alpine resort, police have said, as emergency services continue to work at the scene.
The fire broke out at around 1.30am at Le Constellation, a bar in the centre of the resort town, while more than a hundred people were inside. Police said “several tens of people” are presumed dead, with many of the injured reported to be in a serious condition.
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Speaking on Thursday morning, a police spokesperson said the scale of the incident was still being assessed and that casualty figures could not yet be confirmed. “We are at the very beginning of the investigation,” the spokesperson said, adding that the resort attracts large numbers of international visitors at this time of year.
Crans-Montana is a well-known ski destination in the Swiss Alps, around 40 kilometres north of the Matterhorn, popular with holidaymakers during the festive period. The resort’s profile means authorities are working on the assumption that those affected may include foreign nationals.
Emergency services, including firefighters, police and medical teams, were deployed throughout the night. A temporary no-fly zone was imposed over the area to allow rescue helicopters to operate safely, while nearby roads were closed as investigators secured the site.
Many of the injured have been taken to hospitals across the canton for treatment. Officials said a reception centre has been opened locally to support families seeking information about loved ones, and additional resources are being mobilised as the investigation continues.
The cause of the fire has not yet been established. Authorities said it was too early to speculate and urged patience while forensic teams carry out their work. Further updates are expected later today.
This remains a developing story.
[Image Credit | AP]
Breaking News Information
Emergency Contacts and Family Support
Swiss authorities have established a dedicated information line for relatives and loved ones seeking updates following the New Year fire in Crans-Montana.
Family Information Helpline
+41 84 811 21 17
For those currently in Switzerland who require immediate assistance, national emergency services remain fully operational.
Fire Brigade: 118
Ambulance and Medical Emergencies: 144
General Emergency Number: 112
Confidential emotional support is also available via Switzerland’s national counselling service on 143 for those affected by the incident.
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