A devastating fire at Le Constellation bar in the Swiss ski resort town of Crans-Montana has left approximately 40 people dead and more than 100 injured, authorities reported. The blaze erupted during a New Year’s party, prompting a swift response from local fire departments.
Investigation Underway
Police Commander Frederic Gisler stated that smoke was first observed coming from the bar around 1:30 am local time. Firefighters were immediately dispatched and were able to contain the blaze, while simultaneously providing medical attention to the injured. An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the fire, though authorities have declined to speculate on potential causes at this time.
Witness accounts, reported by Swiss, French, and Italian media, suggest sparklers used as part of a champagne presentation may have ignited nearby materials. One witness, identified as Axel, told an Italian news outlet that waitresses holding sparklers near the ceiling may have inadvertently started the fire.
Chief Prosecutor Beatrice Pilloud of the Wallis canton emphasized that the investigation will focus on determining whether all safety standards were met, including an assessment of the staircase described by witnesses as “narrow” connecting the basement event space to the ground floor.
International Impact
The bar is known to be popular with tourists, and authorities anticipate that foreign nationals are among the victims. Swiss authorities are in contact with families and embassies to provide support and information. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani reported approximately 15 Italian citizens were injured, with a similar number missing. The French Foreign Ministry stated that nine French citizens were injured and eight remain unaccounted for.
Authorities have not yet confirmed reports regarding the possible presence of minors at the event. The bar owners, identified as a French couple from Corsica, are reportedly safe but currently unreachable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time did the fire begin?
According to police commander Frederic Gisler, smoke was first spotted coming from Le Constellation bar around 1:30 am local time.
What is the status of the investigation?
Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire but have not yet released any findings. They are currently focused on determining whether all safety standards were met.
Are foreign nationals among the victims?
Authorities expect foreign nationals to be among the victims, given the international nature of the Crans-Montana resort. Approximately 15 Italians have been reported injured, with a similar number missing, and nine French citizens were injured, with eight unaccounted for.
As the investigation unfolds, the full scope of this tragedy and the factors that contributed to it will become clearer.
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