Crans Montana: A tragic fire during New Year’s Eve celebrations has claimed at least 40 lives in the Swiss alpine resort town of Crans Montana, turning a festive night into one of the deadliest civilian disasters in the country in recent years.
The incident occurred shortly after midnight when a crowded bar hosting New Year celebrations caught fire. More than 100 people were inside at the time, including local residents and foreign tourists. What was initially reported as an explosion was later confirmed by authorities to be a fast spreading fire that engulfed the venue within minutes.
Emergency services rushed to the scene as panic spread through the resort.
Firefighters, police, ambulances, and rescue helicopters worked through the night to evacuate the injured and search for survivors. Around 100 people were injured, many with serious burns and smoke inhalation. Several victims were transferred to hospitals in nearby cities as local medical facilities struggled to cope with the scale of the emergency.
Swiss police said there is no indication of terrorism or criminal intent. Early investigations suggest the fire may have been triggered accidentally during celebrations, possibly involving decorative items or open flames that ignited flammable materials inside the building. Officials stressed that the exact cause will only be confirmed after a full technical investigation.
Authorities imposed temporary flight restrictions over the region to allow rescue helicopters to operate safely. The area around the bar remains sealed off as forensic teams continue their work and efforts to formally identify the victims are ongoing.
The Swiss government and local leaders expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life. Messages of condolence have poured in from across Europe and beyond, as families wait for official confirmation about missing loved ones.
Crans Montana is a popular winter destination known for skiing and tourism. The disaster has cast a shadow over the start of the new year, leaving the resort and the nation in mourning as Switzerland reflects on a night meant for celebration that ended in tragedy.