Crans-Montana Bar Fire 2026: New Year's Tragedy Leaves 40 Dead in Swiss Alps

A New Year's Eve celebration turned into a national tragedy as a massive blaze tore through a popular Swiss ski resort bar. At least 40 people were killed and 115 injured when fire engulfed the 'Le Constellation' bar in Crans-Montana during the early hours of January 1, 2026.

Investigating the Crans-Montana Bar Fire 2026 Disaster

According to Reuters, the blaze broke out at 1:30 a.m. as revelers, many of them teenagers, celebrated the start of the year. Swiss President Guy Parmelin described the event as "one of the worst tragedies our country has ever known."

While the official cause is still under investigation, witnesses reported that the fire may have started in the basement. Two survivors told BFM TV they saw a "fountain candle" on a champagne bottle ignite the wooden ceiling. The fire reportedly spread across the ceiling with lightning-fast speed, leading to a subsequent explosion.

International Victims and Identification Efforts

The disaster has affected multiple nations. Italian authorities confirmed that 6 Italians are missing, while France's Emmanuel Macron stated some victims are being transferred to French hospitals. Due to the severity of the burns, experts are currently using dental and DNA records to identify the deceased.