Deadly Explosion at Swiss Ski Resort Bar Claims Dozens of Lives During New Year Celebrations

A tragic incident happened in Switzerland as a powerful explosion followed by a fire ripped through a crowded bar in the luxury ski resort town of Crans-Montana, killing dozens of people and leaving many more injured. The blast occurred during New Year’s Eve celebrations, turning a night of festivity into one of mourning.

What Happened

According to authorities, the explosion struck the Le Constellation bar at around 1:30 a.m. CET on New Year’s Day. The venue was packed with partygoers who had gathered to welcome the arrival of 2026. Witnesses reported hearing a loud blast, followed by flames rapidly spreading through the building. The bar’s interior, believed to include significant wooden structures, may have contributed to the fire spreading quickly, creating dangerous flashover conditions that left little time for escape.

Videos circulating on social media showed parts of the ceiling engulfed in flames as panic broke out among those inside.

Casualties and Injuries

Swiss officials have said that around 40 people were killed in the incident, while nearly 100 others were injured. Many of the injured suffered severe burns, smoke inhalation, and traumatic injuries caused by the explosion and subsequent fire.

Local hospitals in the Valais region were quickly overwhelmed due to the scale of the incident. Authorities confirmed that several critically injured victims were transferred to specialised burn centres in larger Swiss cities to receive advanced medical care. Officials warned that casualty figures could still change as rescue and identification efforts continue.

Emergency Response

Emergency services launched a major overnight operation. Firefighters, police, ambulances, and air-rescue helicopters rushed to the scene within minutes of the explosion. Fire crews worked for hours to bring the blaze under control, while medical teams treated victims on-site before transferring them to hospitals.

Authorities also established triage centres near the resort and set up emergency helplines for families and friends seeking information about missing loved ones. Roads around the resort were temporarily closed to allow rescue vehicles to operate freely.

Investigation and Official Response

Swiss authorities have launched a full investigation to determine the exact cause of the explosion and fire. While early reports suggest the incident may have been accidental and linked to New Year celebrations, officials have cautioned that it is too early to draw conclusions.

Importantly, authorities have stated that there is no indication of terrorism at this stage. Investigators are examining the building, safety systems, and events leading up to the explosion as part of their inquiry.

A Resort in Mourning

Crans-Montana, known internationally for its ski slopes and vibrant nightlife, has been left in shock. Local officials described the incident as one of the deadliest disasters in recent Swiss history, particularly for a tourist resort.

As Switzerland begins the new year, flags have been lowered and messages of condolence have poured in from across the country and abroad. Further updates are expected as authorities continue rescue, recovery, and investigation efforts.