On the night of 31 December 2025 into 1 January 2026, a catastrophic fire broke out at the Le Constellation bar in the popular Crans-Montana ski resort in Switzerland. The fire started around 1:30 a.m., right in the middle of raucous New Year’s celebrations, when the venue was packed to the brim with partygoers. According to preliminary police reports, at least 40 people died and more than 100 were seriously injured, many with burns and smoke inhalation.
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 parties, became a scene of horror within seconds. Witnesses describe how flames rapidly spread across the ceiling, causing panic among guests. „It happened in the blink of an eye,” one survivor told the media. Firefighters and rescue services arrived at the scene quickly, but thick smoke and chaos hampered evacuation. Many of the victims were tourists from various countries, including France, Italy and the United Kingdom, who were spending the holidays in the Alps.
Videos from the moment the fire broke out have appeared on social media. They show people rushing out en masse and pervasive panic.
The causes of the fire have not yet been fully established, but the preliminary investigation points to a possible short circuit in the electrical installation or problems with New Year’s decorations and lighting. Swiss authorities have opened an investigation, and prosecutors are examining whether fire safety rules were neglected. The bar was a popular spot among celebrities and wealthy tourists.
Representatives of the Swiss government, including the minister for tourism, arrived at the scene and expressed their condolences to the families of the victims. Crans-Montana, usually associated with luxury and relaxation, is now plunged in mourning. The ski slopes remain open, but the atmosphere is grim. It is one of the largest tragedies in Swiss resorts in years, a reminder of the risks associated with mass events. The investigation is ongoing, and the death toll may still rise. Global media, including the BBC and CNN, are following developments and urging caution during similar celebrations. That night was meant to mark the start of a new year, and it turned into a nightmare.
Update
According to the latest information circulating on social media, the fire may have been started by sparklers attached to champagne bottles. The sound-absorbing foam on the bar’s ceiling is said to have then caught fire.
