Swiss authorities report a major disaster during New Year’s celebrations in the ski resort town of Crans‑Montana, where a blast at a bar has killed dozens. An exact toll is not yet confirmed, but Swiss police estimate “dozens” of fatalities, and Italy’s foreign ministry says information from Swiss police points to about 40 dead.
Fire at ski resort in the Swiss Alps on New Year's Eve
About 100 people have been injured, many seriously, and several are foreign tourists. No Israeli casualties have been reported so far; Israel’s Foreign Ministry in Jerusalem is still checking. Police say there is no indication the blaze was deliberate, and Italy’s foreign ministry also stressed there is no suspicion of intentional arson.
The explosion occurred around 01:30 local time in the basement of Le Constellation Bar amid New Year’s festivities. Footage from the scene shows a large fire and crowds nearby. Authorities say the cause is still unclear. According to local outlet Blick, pyrotechnics used during a performance may have triggered the blast, but officials have not confirmed this. A similar report appeared on local radio RhoneFM.
A local police spokesman said the bar held more than 100 people at the time: “We are seeing many injured and many dead,” he said, adding the investigation is just beginning. Authorities have set up a special emergency line for families seeking information about loved ones.
Emergency services and helicopters responded, with one local witness saying he saw helicopters landing about every 10 minutes for hours. Swiss broadcaster RTS quoted an ambulance service doctor saying regional hospitals are “overwhelmed” with burn victims. Police have sealed off the area and closed airspace above the town.
The bar reportedly had a capacity of up to 300 patrons, though a former employee told Blick the actual number present might not have been checked. He said the basement had only one exit, which he had feared could be dangerous in an emergency.
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Aerial archival photography of the ski town, during the summer
(Photo: Wikipedia / Reustli)
Crans‑Montana, at about 1,500 meters in the Swiss Alps and roughly two hours from Bern, is known for annual ski competitions and is scheduled to host the World Cup speed skiing event in late January.
First published: 09:14, 01.01.26