New Year’s Eve 2026 was supposed to be a night to remember, but in Crans-Montana’s Le Constellation bar, it turned into a heart-wrenching tragedy. A blaze ripped through the crowded basement just after 1:30 a.m., leaving around 40 people dead and 115 injured, many of them seriously. ❤️🙏
First responders from across Valais Canton scrambled with ambulances and helicopters, rushing survivors to hospitals in Sion, Lausanne, Zurich and Geneva. Local authorities have declared a state of emergency as investigations get under way.
Officials face the arduous task of identifying the victims. "We're using dental records and DNA tests," said Valais Canton Attorney General Beatrice Pilloud. "This work is crucial to give families certainty before any official announcement."
Swiss President Guy Parmelin postponed his New Year’s address, ordered flags at the Federal Palace to fly at half-mast for five days and expressed deep condolences to the victims’ families.
In the freezing night, hundreds held a silent vigil 🕯️, laying flowers and lighting candles. Eyewitnesses say sparkling candles may have ignited nearby decorations, but authorities have yet to confirm the cause.
The Chinese embassy in Switzerland reports no casualties among nationals from mainland China so far. Verification of all victims’ identities and nationalities is ongoing.
For a community that came together to celebrate, this tragedy is a stark reminder of life’s fragility. Our thoughts are with everyone affected as Crans-Montana embarks on the long path to healing.
Reference(s):
Swiss bar fire kills 40 as identification of victims gets under way
cgtn.com
