A popular bar in the exclusive Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana has been devastated by a powerful explosion, resulting in one fatality and at least 25 people injured. The blast, believed to be caused by a gas leak, occurred in the early hours of the morning, sending shockwaves through the luxury alpine destination.
Scene of Devastation in the Alps
The explosion ripped through the Medran Bar and Pub, located on the Rue du Medran in the heart of Crans-Montana, Valais canton. Emergency services, including police, firefighters, and multiple ambulance crews, were scrambled to the scene just after 1:30 AM local time on Saturday. The force of the blast was immense, completely destroying the bar's facade and scattering debris across the street.
Witnesses described a scene of chaos and destruction. "The whole building shook," one local resident reported. The explosion was so severe that it damaged neighbouring buildings, blowing out windows and causing significant structural harm. Authorities immediately cordoned off the area as a major incident was declared.
Casualties and Emergency Response
Tragically, one person was confirmed dead at the scene. The Valais cantonal police stated that 25 people sustained injuries of varying severity. Several of the wounded were in a serious condition and required urgent medical attention.
Rescue operations were complex and ongoing throughout the night. Firefighters worked meticulously to search the rubble for any further victims, while paramedics treated the injured. The injured were transported to nearby hospitals for care. The cause of the explosion is under urgent investigation, with initial reports strongly pointing to a gas leak as the likely source.
Community and Tourist Destination Rocked
Crans-Montana is a world-renowned, high-end resort in the Swiss Alps, frequented by international tourists and celebrities. The Medran bar was a well-known apres-ski and nightlife spot. This tragic incident has sent a wave of shock through the close-knit community and the many visitors present during the busy ski season.
Local officials and resort management have expressed their profound sadness and are cooperating fully with the investigation. The explosion represents one of the most serious incidents to hit a Swiss ski resort in recent years, raising immediate questions about safety protocols for gas installations in such venues.
The investigation, led by the Valais cantonal police, continues as forensic experts work to determine the exact sequence of events that led to the catastrophic blast.
