Crans-Montana, Switzerland: A horrific fire ripped through the Le Constellation bar and lounge in the Swiss Alps early this morning, turning New Year’s celebrations into a national tragedy. Police have confirmed that several dozen people are presumed dead, with approximately 100 others injured, many of them seriously.
Key Details of the Incident:
- The Incident: The fire broke out around 1:30 AM local time as international tourists were celebrating the New Year. Witnesses reported hearing an explosion, which authorities currently believe was a “flashover” or “backdraft” caused by the rapid spread of combustible gases, rather than an intentional attack.
- Casualties: While exact figures are still being confirmed, the Italian Foreign Ministry, citing Swiss police, suggests around 40 people may have died. Identifying victims is expected to take time due to the severity of the burns.
- Emergency Response: A massive operation is underway involving 10 helicopters, 40 ambulances, and over 150 responders. Regional hospitals, including those in Sion, Lausanne, Geneva, and Zurich, have reached full capacity in their intensive care units.
- Restrictions: A no-fly zone has been imposed over Crans-Montana, and the district surrounding the bar has been completely sealed off for investigation.
Authorities have explicitly ruled out a terrorist attack, with preliminary evidence pointing toward a tragic accident, potentially linked to pyrotechnics used during a concert inside the venue.
