Late-night blaze at packed Crans-Montana bar leaves about 40 dead and 115 hurt as investigators probe cause and rule out terrorism Swiss authorities say.
Massive overnight fire at a crowded bar in the Swiss Alps has killed around 40 people and injured at least 115 others, turning a popular tourist destination into the scene of one of Switzerland’s deadliest nightlife disasters in recent years, police said.
The fire broke out shortly after 1:30 a.m. local time at Le Constellation, a well-known bar in the resort town of Crans-Montana, officials said. The venue was hosting a late-night event and was filled with local residents and international visitors when the blaze erupted, triggering panic as flames and thick smoke spread rapidly through the building.
Emergency services launched a large-scale response within minutes. Authorities said more than 150 first responders were deployed, supported by about 40 ambulances and 10 medical helicopters. The injured were taken to hospitals across the region, with many suffering severe burns and smoke inhalation.
Police said the death toll could rise as several victims remain in critical condition. Rescue teams worked through the early morning hours to evacuate survivors and secure the structure, which sustained extensive damage.
Investigators have sealed off the area surrounding the bar, and a temporary no-fly zone was imposed to allow helicopters to operate safely. Swiss authorities said there is no indication the fire was linked to terrorism or deliberate criminal activity.
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Preliminary findings suggest the blaze may have been sparked by pyrotechnic effects used during a live concert inside the bar. Officials cautioned that the investigation is still in its early stages and that the exact cause has not yet been confirmed.
Crans-Montana, located in the canton of Valais, is a high-profile ski and vacation resort known for attracting visitors from across Europe and beyond. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community and the broader tourism industry, particularly as the winter season reaches peak activity.
Witnesses described scenes of chaos as people attempted to escape the smoke-filled venue. “It happened very fast,” one survivor told local media, describing limited visibility and intense heat inside the bar moments after the fire began.
Swiss federal and cantonal authorities said they are coordinating the investigation and will review safety protocols, including the use of indoor pyrotechnics and emergency exits at entertainment venues.
The fire comes amid heightened scrutiny of crowd safety following a series of deadly nightclub and concert fires worldwide in recent years. Swiss officials said lessons would be drawn from the tragedy to prevent similar incidents in the future.
King Charles III sent a heartfelt message to Swiss President Guy Parmelin expressing his condolences over the devastating fire at a bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland. The King stated, “My wife and I were appalled, and greatly saddened, to learn of the devastating fire last night in Crans-Montana, in Switzerland. It is utterly heartbreaking that a night of celebration for young people and families instead turned to such nightmarish tragedy”
As families await official identification of victims, national leaders expressed condolences, calling the loss of life “devastating” and pledging full support for those affected by the disaster.