- Swiss authorities confirmed that while investigations are ongoing, there is no indication that the incident was linked to an attack
- Swiss prosecutors have since launched a full investigation to determine the exact cause of the blaze
- Emergency services deployed massive resources to the scene, including 13 helicopters, over 40 ambulances and about 150 rescue personnel
At least 40 people have lost their lives following a devastating fire outbreak at a popular bar in the Crans-Montana ski resort in southern Switzerland during New Year celebrations, with more than 100 others sustaining varying degrees of injuries.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the inferno erupted around 1:30 a.m. on New Year’s Day at Le Constellation bar, where revellers had gathered to usher in the new year.
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Swiss authorities confirmed that while investigations are ongoing, there is no indication that the incident was linked to an attack.
Police officials disclosed that the tragedy affected nationals from several countries, noting that emergency responders were immediately mobilised to manage the situation.
According to regional police commander, Frédéric Gisler, the immediate focus remains on identifying the deceased so their remains can be returned promptly to their families.
Emergency services deployed massive resources to the scene, including 13 helicopters, over 40 ambulances and about 150 rescue personnel .
Many of the injured suffered serious burns, with dozens transferred to hospitals across Switzerland, including facilities in Sion, Lausanne, Zurich and Geneva, where specialised burn units are available.
Regional authorities revealed that several victims were in critical condition, adding that intensive care units in some hospitals had reached capacity. Medical experts explained that many injuries were compounded by smoke inhalation, which caused internal damage to the lungs in addition to external burns.
Foreign ministries from Italy and France confirmed that their citizens were among those affected.
Italy reported several nationals missing and others hospitalised, while France acknowledged that some of its citizens were receiving treatment, with fears that more may be among the casualties.
Swiss prosecutors have since launched a full investigation to determine the exact cause of the blaze. While multiple theories are being examined, officials stressed that no conclusion has been reached.
They also noted that building safety features, including stairways and exits, would form part of the inquiry.
Addressing journalists, Swiss President Guy Parmelin described the incident as one of the darkest moments in the country’s recent history, extending condolences to the families of victims and assuring them of the government’s full support.
Tributes have continued to pour in from world leaders and institutions. King Charles of the United Kingdom expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, while French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed that France was assisting by receiving injured victims into its hospitals.
The European Union also pledged support through its civil protection mechanisms.
As investigations continue, Swiss authorities have opened a helpline for affected families and assured the public that all necessary steps are being taken to uncover the circumstances surrounding the tragic fire and to prevent a recurrence.
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