By Dalena Reporters l January 1, 2026
CRANS-MONTANA, SWITZERLAND — A tragic explosion and ensuing fire ripped through Le Constellation, a popular bar in the upscale ski resort of Crans-Montana in southwestern Switzerland during New Year’s Eve celebrations, killing dozens of people and injuring around 100 others, Swiss police said early on Thursday. The incident, one of the deadliest civilian disasters in recent Swiss history, unfolded shortly after 1:30 a.m. local time as revellers marked the arrival of 2026.
Emergency responders described scenes of chaos as flames and smoke enveloped the crowded venue, which was filled with locals and international tourists when the blast occurred. Swiss authorities have imposed a complete lockdown of the area and a no-fly zone over the resort as rescue and investigation efforts continue.
Swiss police spokesperson Gaetan Lathion confirmed that multiple fatalities had occurred and that many others were being treated for serious injuries in overwhelmed hospitals across the region. Local officials said some victims suffered severe burns, and dozens of trauma and burn victims were being transported by ambulances and rescue helicopters to medical facilities, with some critical cases requiring transfers to larger hospitals.
Initial reports indicate that the explosion may have been followed by an intense fire that spread rapidly through the venue’s interior, though authorities have not yet determined the exact cause. Prosecutors and police have ruled out terrorism or deliberate attack, treating the incident as a catastrophic accident.
The Italian foreign ministry, citing Swiss police information, suggested that the death toll could be around 40 people, though officials on the ground have been cautious about providing specific casualty figures, referring instead to “dozens killed.” Many of those affected are believed to be foreign visitors, underscoring the international dimensions of the disaster at a resort town that attracts tourists from across Europe and beyond.
Authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances leading up to the explosion and fire, including safety compliance and potential ignition sources. Police and forensic teams are also working to identify the deceased and support families of the victims.
Swiss President Guy Parmelin expressed national mourning for the victims and extended condolences to bereaved families, noting that what began as a celebration had quickly turned into a profound tragedy. Rescue operations continued into Thursday morning, with assistance from multiple emergency services mobilised from across the region.
The disaster in Crans-Montana is expected to prompt scrutiny of safety standards at public venues, particularly those hosting large celebrations, as communities and authorities alike seek answers and accountability in the wake of this catastrophic event.