Multiple Fatalities Reported in New Year’s Eve Fire at Crans-Montana Bar

SWITZERLAND : A night of celebration has turned into a scene of horror in the Swiss Alps after a massive fire broke out at a popular bar during New Year’s Eve festivities, leaving “many dead” and dozens injured.

The blaze erupted at Le Constellation bar, located in the prestigious ski resort municipality of Crans-Montana, at approximately 1:30 am local time on New Year’s Day. At the time of the fire, the venue was packed with revellers celebrating the start of 2026.

Police spokesperson Gaëtan Lathion confirmed the gravity of the situation in an early morning statement. “More than a hundred people were in the building, and we are seeing many injured and many dead,” Lathion said.

Local fire crews and mountain rescue teams were rushed to the scene to battle the flames and evacuate survivors. Due to the high number of casualties, authorities have established:

For families seeking information on loved ones.

To provide psychological support and medical assessment for survivors.

The identity and nationalities of the victims have not yet been released, though the resort is known for its high volume of international visitors from France, Italy, and greater Switzerland.

The cause of the fire remains unknown as investigators wait for the structure to be declared safe to enter. Crans-Montana is one of Europe’s most renowned ski destinations, situated just 40 kilometres north of the Matterhorn.

A formal news conference is scheduled for 10:00 am local time, where police are expected to provide a preliminary death toll and further details on the investigation.