A devastating fire at a popular bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana has resulted in one of the worst tragedies in the country's recent history, claiming at least 40 lives and leaving 115 people injured. The incident occurred during New Year celebrations, sending shockwaves through the international community, with citizens of France and Italy confirmed among the casualties.
How the Crans-Montana Bar Fire Unfolded
The blaze erupted in the early hours of Thursday morning at Le Constellation bar in the town located in the canton of Valais. According to eyewitness accounts given to French broadcaster BFMTV, the fire started when a candle placed on a bottle, held too high, ignited the ceiling. Flames and thick black smoke spread rapidly through the venue.
Police and emergency services were alerted around 1:30 a.m. and responded with remarkable speed. Cantonal police chief Frederic Gisler stated that the first officers arrived at the scene within just two minutes of the call. The area was immediately cordoned off as a major rescue operation commenced.
International Victims and Ongoing Investigation
The scale of the tragedy has stretched Swiss health services, with the injured being taken to hospitals in Lausanne, Geneva, and Zurich. Some patients may be transferred to neighboring countries due to the strain on local facilities.
Italy's Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani, revealed that 12 to 15 Italian citizens were hospitalized following the fire, with a further 16 reported missing. Swiss President Guy Parmelin confirmed he has been in contact with foreign leaders, including those from France and Italy, whose citizens are affected.
Local authorities have clarified that initial reports of an explosion were a result of the intense blaze, not its cause. Valais Attorney General Beatrice Pilloud announced that investigators have collected phones from the scene and are interviewing witnesses. A key part of the probe will be to examine whether the venue had proper safety procedures and functional emergency exits.
A Nation in Mourning and a Helpline for Families
Swiss President Guy Parmelin expressed profound sorrow, calling the incident "one of the worst tragedies that our country has ever known." He expressed confidence that the investigation would be carried out professionally.
Police have established a dedicated helpline for families seeking information: (41) 848 112 117. The tourism authorities of Crans-Montana, a renowned area for skiing and hiking that hosts World Cup races, issued a statement describing a day of "deep sadness" and thanking emergency services and helpers.
The community and the nation are now left to mourn as the investigation into the precise causes and circumstances of this fatal accident continues.
