GENEVA, Switzerland — A fire tore through a popular bar in Crans-Montana as revelers celebrated the arrival of the New Year, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries, according to local authorities. Emergency services quickly descended upon the scene early Thursday morning, responding to a blaze that could have led to a significant loss of life in the upscale ski resort town.
The fire erupted at Le Constellation, an establishment known for its lively atmosphere and capacity to host around 300 patrons indoors, with an additional 40 seats available on its terrace. Preliminary reports indicated that about 100 people were gathered there to ring in the New Year when the incident occurred, creating a chaotic scene amid the festive celebration.
Eyewitness accounts described harrowing images of bright flames illuminating the night sky as terrified guests fled, some reportedly screaming in panic. A tourist visiting from New York shared that he captured the dramatic moment on camera, detailing the chaotic rush as flames engulfed the venue.
Authorities classified the incident as serious, confirming that emergency responders, including police and firefighters, launched a massive rescue operation to assist victims. “Several individuals lost their lives, and many others sustained injuries,” the local police noted in a statement, highlighting the ongoing nature of the emergency response.
As ambulances lingered outside the bar well after the fire was extinguished, witnesses reported a lingering smell of smoke and destruction. Local media outlets speculated that the death toll could reach alarming numbers, with some sources suggesting potentially up to 40 fatalities and about 100 injuries. These estimates have raised alarm among the community and emergency officials alike.
While police have not confirmed the cause of the fire, speculation regarding its origins emerged, with unverified reports indicating that it may have been sparked by pyrotechnics used during a concert. Gaetan Lathion, a police spokesman, mentioned that an explosion occurred around 1:30 a.m. at the bar but emphasized that investigations into the cause are ongoing.
Following the incident, authorities established a secure perimeter around the area, declaring it closed to the public and enforcing a no-fly zone above Crans-Montana to facilitate emergency operations. Witnesses described a sudden shift in mood as the celebratory atmosphere turned somber; the sounds of celebration were replaced by police sirens and the sight of emergency responders rushing to the scene.
As the investigation unfolds, the community grapples with the shock of the event, mourning the loss of life while awaiting answers about how such a tragedy could occur in a beloved local establishment. Amidst the unfolding tragedy, residents expressed their sorrow, recalling the bar’s popularity among young people and tourists alike. The grief that now envelops Crans-Montana is palpable as the community seeks to understand the magnitude of this disaster.