Massive New Year’s Eve fire leaves dozens Dead and 100 Injured
At least 40 people have been killed and 100 others injured after a massive fire tore through a crowded New Year’s Eve party at the ‘Le Constellation’ bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana. The Italian Foreign Ministry, citing Swiss police reports, confirmed the death toll, noting that most survivors suffered severe burns and critical injuries.
The tragedy struck late Thursday as revelers celebrated the start of 2026. While Prosecutor Beatrice Pilloud stated that the incident is being investigated as an accident rather than a deliberate attack, the Italian Ambassador to Switzerland, Gian Lorenzo Cornado, revealed that the blaze was likely triggered by indoor fireworks that ignited the venue’s ceiling. Authorities noted that identifying the victims will be a lengthy process due to the condition of the remains.
A massive rescue operation was launched, involving 10 helicopters and 40 ambulances to transport the wounded to specialized hospitals in Sion, Lausanne, Geneva, and Zurich. A no-fly zone has been established over the area to facilitate emergency efforts. Officials confirmed that many of the victims are foreign nationals, and families from neighboring Italy have already gathered at the resort to search for missing loved ones.
Swiss President Guy Parmelin expressed his profound shock, stating, ‘What was meant to be a moment of joy has turned into a tragedy that has touched the entire nation.’ The governments of Italy and Germany have also extended their official condolences as the investigation continues.
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