At least 40 people have been killed and around 115 others injured after a devastating fire broke out during New Year celebrations at a bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana, according to police and emergency authorities. Several people are still missing, raising fears that the death toll could rise further. The blaze erupted shortly after midnight at Le Constellation, a popular bar known to attract teenagers and young people during the festive season. Authorities say the fire spread with extreme speed after a phenomenon known as a “flashover,” where flames rapidly ignite the entire spa

At least 40 people have been killed and around 115 others injured after a devastating fire broke out during New Year celebrations at a bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana, according to police and emergency authorities. Several people are still missing, raising fears that the death toll could rise further. The blaze erupted shortly after midnight at Le Constellation, a popular bar known to attract teenagers and young people during the festive season. Authorities say the fire spread with extreme speed after a phenomenon known as a “flashover,” where flames rapidly ignite the entire space, leaving little time for those inside to escape. Witnesses described scenes of panic and chaos as people tried desperately to flee the basement venue through a narrow staircase. Videos from outside the bar show crowds screaming and running, while others lay injured on the ground awaiting help. Survivors recounted hearing screams, struggling to breathe, and smashing windows to escape the inferno. Among those still unaccounted for is 16-year-old Arthur Brodard, who had been celebrating New Year’s Eve with friends. His parents, who traveled urgently to Crans-Montana, said they are clinging to hope that their son is still alive. “One or two minutes after they ordered champagne with sparklers, it was the apocalypse,” his father told reporters. Authorities are investigating the exact cause of the fire. Two witnesses told local media that sparklers placed in champagne bottles may have triggered the blaze, but officials have stressed that the investigation will take time and no conclusions have yet been confirmed. The tragedy has affected multiple nationalities. France confirmed that nine of its nationals were injured and eight remain missing, while Australia said one of its citizens was among those hurt. Several victims have been transferred to hospitals in Switzerland, France, and beyond as governments mobilize consular support for affected families. Crans-Montana, one of Switzerland’s most exclusive alpine resorts, is known for its luxury tourism and sweeping views from the Matterhorn to Mont Blanc. In the aftermath of the fire, the usually vibrant resort fell into heavy silence as residents and visitors gathered to light candles, lay flowers, and mourn the victims. “This is not just a tragedy for Crans-Montana, but a national and international tragedy,” one mourner said during a vigil near the site. Swiss authorities say victim identification is ongoing and have pledged a full investigation to determine responsibility and prevent similar disasters in the future. Source: CNN

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