A catastrophic fire and explosion at a popular bar in the Swiss Alps has resulted in a significant loss of life and left around 100 people injured, many seriously, in the early hours of New Year's Day. Swiss authorities have stated that "several tens of people" are presumed dead following the blaze at the Le Constellation bar in the resort of Crans-Montana.
Scene of Horror in Alpine Resort
The incident occurred at approximately 1:30am local time on Thursday, shocking revellers who had been celebrating the arrival of the new year. The bar, known as a haunt for younger people, was reportedly packed at the time. Police commander Frédéric Gisler confirmed the fire originated in the basement of the venue.
Emergency services faced a chaotic scene. "I saw horrendous things," said Lara, a 28-year-old Dutch tourist who arrived minutes after the explosion. "I saw three young people carrying their friend... desperately trying to get help. People were so burned. No one knew what was happening."
Narrow Staircase and Rapid Spread Hampered Escape
Survivors and witnesses have painted a terrifying picture of the struggle to escape. The bar is described as a deep, cavernous space with a narrow wooden staircase as the primary exit. "The stairs are narrow. Only three person-wide. I just can’t imagine trying to get out," Lara added, noting the interior was "all wood" with a low ceiling.
Two survivors told French media BFM TV they saw the fire start when a birthday candle held near the wooden ceiling of the basement ignited it. "[The ceiling] caught fire in a couple of minutes," one woman said. This led to a deadly crush as panicked patrons tried to flee up the single staircase.
French holidaymaker Bastien Frema, 20, described seeing "people with burnt clothing shredded, hanging off them" and hearing constant screams. The response was massive, with helicopters operating through the night until 8am and a huge deployment of police and ambulances.
Ongoing Investigation and Community in Mourning
Police have cautioned that the exact number of fatalities remains unclear as the complex investigation continues and efforts are made to identify the victims. The Italian ambassador to Switzerland suggested the identification process could take several weeks.
The local community and visitors are in a state of shock. Marceau Fortune, a 20-year-old French hotel worker, waited anxiously at a police cordon for news of friends. "I heard a massive explosion... It’s just beyond horrific," he said. Many fear the victims are predominantly young, given the bar's reputation. As Matthew, a 28-year-old local, noted, "It’s a fun place if you’re young."
The cause of the initial blaze is still under official investigation by Swiss authorities.
