A New Year’s celebration in the Swiss Alps turned tragic early this morning when a fire broke out at Le Constellation, a popular bar in Crans-Montana. Isra, Matteo, and Leon, who had intended to celebrate at the bar but found it full, witnessed the unfolding emergency. “We saw fire, many ambulances, people burned on the street and others running in all directions,” said 16-year-old Isra.
A Community in Mourning
The incident has deeply shaken the community of Crans-Montana, a resort town in the Valais canton. As of this afternoon, dozens of people, many of them teenagers, have gathered in silence to lay flowers in remembrance of the 40 victims and 130 individuals injured in the blaze.
Le Constellation, owned by two Frenchmen from Corsica, was a central hub for the area’s youth. Friends of those inside the bar are anxiously awaiting news, with some hospitalized with burns and one in a medically induced coma in Lyon, France. Others remain unaccounted for.
Alessio and James, residents of Lausanne who arrived in Crans-Montana on New Year’s Eve, were among those paying their respects. They recalled frequenting the bar in their youth, and described a scene of chaos: “People were screaming as if they were going to die, running everywhere and breaking windows, it was a real chaos. There were people lying on the ground.”
Concerns Over Safety
The bar, with a capacity of 300 people, has been described as “a little gloomy, where you can feel trapped.” Bernard Schumacher, a French resident of Crans-Montana, expressed shock, stating, “No one expected an accident like this in Crans-Montana.” Questions are being raised about whether safety measures at the bar were adequate, with some noting the difficulty of eliminating all risk in such a situation.
Justine and her sister Flavia, from the nearby town of Sierre, were spared from the tragedy when Justine decided against going out after midnight. Their mother participated in the rescue efforts, and their stepfather is among the firefighters working to contain the damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in Crans-Montana?
A fire broke out at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, resulting in 40 deaths and 130 injuries.
Who frequents Le Constellation?
The bar is described as a popular gathering place for young people, typically between the ages of 15 and 16.
What is the current situation in Crans-Montana?
The town is in mourning, with residents and visitors alike paying their respects to the victims and awaiting further information about the injured and missing.
As authorities investigate the cause of the fire, the community of Crans-Montana faces a difficult recovery. What steps will be taken to ensure the safety of public spaces and support those affected by this devastating event?
