On the night of December 31, 2025 on January 1, 2026, a catastrophic fire occurred at the popular Crans-Montana ski resort in Switzerland at the Le Constellation bar. The fire broke out around 1:30 in the morning, right in the middle of the big New Year celebrations, when the place was filled with partyers. According to preliminary police reports, at least 40 people were killed and more than 100 were seriously injured, including many with burns and smoke poisoning.
The Le Constellation Bar, located in the heart of Crans-Montana – a luxury resort in the canton of Valais, known for its picturesque slopes and exclusive events – has become a horror scene in just seconds. Witnesses describe how the flames rapidly spread across the ceiling, causing panic among the guests. "It happened in the blink of an eye," reported one of the survivors in a conversation with the media. The fire and rescue services arrived quickly, but dense smoke and chaos made evacuation difficult. Many victims are tourists from different countries, including France, Italy and Great Britain, who spent Christmas in the Alps.
Social platforms featured videos of the outbreak. They show massively running people and ubiquitous panic.
The causes of the fire are not yet fully established, but the preliminary investigation indicates a possible short circuit of the electrical installation or problems with New Year's Eve decorations and lighting. The Swiss authorities have launched an investigation and the prosecution is investigating whether there have been any negligence in the area of fire safety. The bar was a popular place among celebrities and rich tourists.
Representatives of the Swiss government, including the Minister for Tourism, came to the site and expressed their condolences to the families of the victims. Crans-Montana, usually associated with luxury and relaxation, now plunged into mourning – ski slopes remain open, but the atmosphere is bleak. This is one of the biggest tragedies in Swiss resorts in years, reminding of the risks associated with mass events. The investigation is ongoing and the number of victims may increase. World media, including the BBC and CNN, follow developments, calling for caution during similar celebrations. This night was supposed to be the beginning of a new year, and it became a nightmare.
Update
According to the latest information appearing in social media – the fire may have started fireworks attached to champagne. They were supposed to light the foam on the ceiling of the bar.
