A catastrophic fire broke out at the Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, during New Year’s Eve celebrations, claiming at least 40 lives and injuring 115, many critically. The incident, occurring around 1:30 a.m. on January 1, 2026, quickly transformed a celebratory atmosphere into one of the nation’s deadliest disasters.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the fire’s cause, which preliminary evidence suggests may have been triggered by sparking candles atop champagne bottles that ignited the bar’s wooden ceiling. Witness testimonies indicate a rapid spread of flames following the initial ignition. Investigators are assessing the venue’s compliance with fire safety regulations, including the availability of extinguishers and escape routes, and negligence charges could follow if safety violations are confirmed.
Among the victims are Swiss nationals and foreign citizens from various European nations, complicating identification efforts due to the severity of the burns; DNA testing is being utilized. Notable among the missing is 16-year-old Arthur Brodard, while 17-year-old Emanuele Galeppini, an Italian golfer, is presumed dead.
Survivors have shared harrowing accounts of their escapes amid the chaos. One young witness, 16-year-old Axel Clavier from Paris, described the frantic situation as attendees struggled to flee. Eyewitnesses also reported that the fire spread after a bartender with a lit sparkler ignited the ceiling. Local citizens showed extraordinary bravery, aiding in rescues.
This tragedy has deeply affected the Crans-Montana community, known for its ski and golf amenities, prompting widespread mourning and the creation of makeshift memorials. As investigations progress, questions arise about safety in public venues during large events, with the Swiss government committing to enhance safety protocols to prevent future tragedies.
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