A horrific fire erupted in the Le Constellation bar at the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana shortly after midnight on January 1, 2026, during New Year celebrations, claiming the lives of approximately 40 individuals and injuring 115 more.
Authorities believe that the blaze likely started when sparklers inserted into champagne bottles were moved too close to the ceiling, igniting a rapid fire. Valais attorney general Beatrice Pilloud stated that "everything leads us to think the fire started from sparkling candles, sparklers," highlighting the sheer speed with which the blaze spread through the overcrowded venue.
Among the deceased are nationals from various countries, including 71 Swiss citizens, 14 French, and 11 Italians. Rescue efforts have led to the transfer of many injured victims to hospitals in France and Italy for specialized burn treatment, emphasizing the scale of this tragedy.
Eyewitness accounts describe a scene of panic as the fire erupted, with some patrons escaping by forcing open windows. Survivors have expressed trauma and confusion, some still searching for missing friends.
Local officials are working to identify the victims and have opened an investigation to understand the circumstances surrounding the fire. However, they emphasized there are no indications of foul play, stating, "At no moment is there a question of any kind of attack."
A community memorial is planned for January 9, with a book of condolences available online for those wishing to express support for the victims and their families. The incident has left the small resort town grieving, as it grapples with one of the worst disasters in its history.
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