A devastating fire at a bar in Switzerland has claimed the lives of approximately 40 people and injured 115 others during New Year’s celebrations. The tragedy occurred at Le Constellation bar in the popular ski resort town of Crans-Montana at around 1:30 AM local time. Moreover, several people remain missing as authorities work to identify the victims.
What Happened That Night?
The fire broke out while hundreds of people were celebrating the New Year inside the packed bar. Eyewitnesses reported seeing employees carrying champagne bottles with sparklers shortly before the blaze started. Subsequently, flames spread rapidly across the ceiling, creating scenes of terror and chaos.
New videos verified by CNN show crowds rushing up stairs toward the exit as smoke filled the venue. Furthermore, thick black smoke poured out of windows as people desperately tried to escape. Some individuals climbed through windows to safety, while others lay motionless on the ground outside.
Casualty Breakdown and Response
| Category | Numbers |
|---|---|
| Deaths confirmed | Approximately 40 |
| People injured | 115 |
| French nationals injured | 9 |
| Italian nationals hospitalized | 15 |
| Australian nationals injured | 1 |
| French nationals missing | 8 |
Authorities from France, Italy, and Australia have confirmed their citizens are among the victims. Additionally, France has allocated 19 hospital beds for severe burn victims, as the Swiss regional medical system became overwhelmed.
Investigation and Possible Causes
Investigators are examining whether a “flashover” caused the rapid spread of flames. A flashover occurs when everything in a room ignites almost simultaneously, creating an explosion-like effect. However, Valais Canton Attorney General Beatrice Pilloud stated it was too early to determine the exact cause.
Police have confirmed this is not being treated as a terror-related incident. Nevertheless, questions remain about whether the bar was overcrowded, with evidence suggesting up to 200 people were inside, including teenagers as young as 15.
Challenges in Victim Identification
Commander Frederic Gisler of the Valais Cantonal Police explained that identifying victims could take several days. Many bodies are too severely burned for quick identification, requiring DNA and dental tests. Consequently, families face an agonizing wait for news of their loved ones.
Expert Analysis
Fire safety expert Glenn Corbett compared this incident to the 2003 Rhode Island nightclub fire that killed 100 people. He emphasized that escaping within 90 seconds is crucial for survival in such situations. Additionally, he noted that confusion affects people’s ability to escape quickly, especially when they don’t immediately understand what’s happening.
Community in Shock
The entire town of Crans-Montana remains in shock following the tragedy. Journalist Sandro Zulian reported seeing residents crying and sobbing in the streets. Swiss President Guy Parmelin addressed the nation, saying the country owes it to the young people who lost their lives to ensure nothing similar happens again.
The fire at a bar in Switzerland has become one of the country’s worst tragedies. Meanwhile, authorities continue their investigation while providing support to victims’ families and survivors of this devastating incident.
