Dozens killed, over 100 injured in fire at Swiss ski resort bar

At least 40 people lost their lives and 115 others were injured when a fire broke out at a crowded bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, during a New Year's Eve celebration.

The fire erupted around 1:30 a.m. local time (0030 GMT) at Le Constellation, a venue popular among younger patrons.

Swiss President Guy Parmelin described the disaster as "one of the worst tragedies our country has ever known," noting that many victims were young. While the cause of the fire remains under investigation, initial reports suggest it was an accident rather than an attack.

Witnesses recounted chaos as patrons scrambled to escape the flames. Samuel Rapp, a witness, stated, "People were screaming, and then people lying on the ground, probably dead."

Authorities confirmed that many victims remain unidentifiable due to severe injuries, with Italian officials reporting six Italians missing and 13 hospitalized.

Two young French women present at the bar indicated the fire originated in the basement after a bottle containing "birthday candles" was held too close to the ceiling. Local prosecutor Beatrice Pilloud announced an investigation into the incident, emphasizing the need to clarify the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

Victims from multiple countries were reported, prompting foreign governments to inquire about their nationals. The identification process is expected to be lengthy due to the extent of the burns.

Mathias Reynard, president of the Valais cantonal government, expressed his anguish while meeting the victims' families, stating, "It's a terrible situation on the ground. Unimaginable."

French President Emmanuel Macron extended offers of assistance, with three survivors transferred to hospitals in France. Video footage captured the frantic response, including ambulances and helicopters transporting victims to medical facilities across Switzerland.

The area surrounding the bar remains cordoned off for investigations. Hundreds of mourners paid their respects, leaving flowers and candles at a makeshift memorial. Crans-Montana, set to host next year's Alpine World Ski Championships, is now in mourning.

"What was meant to be a moment of joy turned into mourning that touches the entire country and far beyond," said President Parmelin on social media.

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