Swiss Ski Resort Bar Fire Kills Around 40 in Crans-Montana

A Swiss ski resort bar fire in Crans-Montana has killed around 40 people and injured more than 100 during New Year celebrations. Authorities say the blaze was accidental, not an attack, and investigations are ongoing.

Crans-Montana, Switzerland | January 1, 2026

What Happened

A devastating Swiss ski resort bar fire tore through a crowded nightclub in the early hours of New Year’s Day, leaving around 40 people dead and more than 115 injured, many with life-threatening burns.

The fire broke out at approximately 1:30 a.m. local time inside Le Constellation, a popular bar in the luxury Alpine resort of Crans-Montana. Hundreds of people had gathered inside the venue to celebrate the arrival of the New Year when flames spread rapidly through the building.

Emergency services rushed to the scene within minutes, but the intensity of the blaze and thick smoke severely limited escape routes. Several victims were found trapped inside the premises as firefighters worked through the night to control the fire.

Where It Happened

The tragedy unfolded in Crans-Montana, a renowned ski resort located in Switzerland’s Valais canton, a region popular with international tourists during the winter season.

Le Constellation, a long-established venue in the resort, features a large dance floor on the lower level and an upper lounge area where patrons often watch sporting events. The building was reportedly full at the time of the fire, amplifying the scale of the disaster.

Official Confirmation

Swiss police and regional authorities confirmed the scale of the tragedy during a morning press conference. Valais regional police commander Frédéric Gisler said identifying victims remains the top priority.

“Our immediate focus is identifying those who lost their lives so their families can be informed and their bodies returned with dignity,” Gisler said.

More than 150 emergency responders, 40 ambulances, and 10 rescue helicopters were deployed overnight. Hospitals across the region activated emergency protocols as burn units quickly reached capacity.

Valais council leader Mathias Reynard confirmed that most injured victims suffered severe burns and inhalation injuries. Patients were transferred to specialist burn units in Lausanne and Zurich to relieve pressure on local hospitals.

Swiss prosecutors ruled out terrorism or deliberate wrongdoing, stressing that the Swiss ski resort bar fire was accidental, though the exact cause remains under investigation.

Why It Matters

This Swiss ski resort bar fire marks one of the deadliest nightclub disasters in Switzerland in decades, sending shockwaves across the country and beyond.

Crans-Montana attracts thousands of international visitors each winter, and authorities have confirmed that victims include people from multiple countries. The scale of the tragedy has triggered diplomatic involvement, with several foreign ministries coordinating with Swiss officials.

The incident also raises urgent questions about fire safety standards, crowd control, and emergency preparedness in nightlife venues, particularly during major holiday celebrations when occupancy levels peak.

Swiss President Guy Parmelin described the incident as a national tragedy:

“A moment of joy turned into a tragedy that has touched Switzerland and many countries abroad.”

What Happens Next

Investigators from the Valais prosecutor’s office have launched a full forensic inquiry into the Swiss ski resort bar fire, examining building materials, electrical systems, and possible use of pyrotechnics, though no cause has been confirmed.

Authorities have temporarily closed parts of Crans-Montana to allow forensic teams to work without disruption. Officials warn that victim identification may take weeks, due to the severity of injuries and international involvement.

A dedicated helpline has been established for families seeking information:
+41 848 112 117

Swiss officials have urged witnesses to come forward and are reviewing CCTV footage from inside and around the venue.

Conclusion

The Swiss ski resort bar fire in Crans-Montana has transformed a night of celebration into a devastating national and international tragedy. As families wait for answers, authorities face mounting pressure to uncover how such a deadly fire could erupt in one of Switzerland’s most famous resorts.

While rescue efforts have ended, the emotional toll and long-term consequences of the disaster are only beginning to unfold. Investigators say accountability, safety reforms, and support for victims’ families will remain priorities in the weeks ahead.