A devastating fire at a popular bar in a Swiss ski resort on New Year's Day has claimed the lives of 47 people and left over 100 injured, with a young football talent from a French club among the casualties.
Ligue 1 Prospect Airlifted to Germany with Severe Burns
FC Metz has confirmed that their 19-year-old youth player, Tahirys Dos Santos, was "severely burned" in the blaze at Le Constellation Bar in Crans-Montana. The reserve player, originally from Mont-Saint-Martin, was reportedly celebrating the new year at the venue when the fire erupted in the early hours of 1 January. He was subsequently airlifted to a specialist hospital in Germany for urgent treatment.
In an official statement, the Ligue 1 club expressed its profound shock and sadness. "Deeply affected by this news, the club's management, players, coaches, and staff are in shock and extend their heartfelt condolences to Tahirys during this difficult time as he battles his illness," the statement read. FC Metz is working to transfer him to Mercy Hospital, closer to his family, and has requested privacy for the player and his loved ones.
How the Deadly Fire Unfolded
The catastrophic incident is believed to have been sparked by sparklers placed in champagne bottles, which ignited the bar's ceiling material. Witnesses described how the establishment was engulfed in flames within mere seconds, leading to a frantic rush for a single narrow exit.
Fire officials described the event as an "embrasement generalise", a rapid flashover phenomenon where combustible gases ignite violently. The bar, which had been renovated in 2015, was quickly consumed. In addition to the 47 fatalities, approximately 115 people sustained injuries, many of whom were in their teens or twenties. Victims suffered from serious burns and smoke inhalation, with some flown to hospitals across Switzerland.
Condolences and Ongoing Investigation
The owners of Le Constellation Bar are said to be "completely in shock" as families continue to search for missing loved ones. The tragedy has drawn international sympathy, including from King Charles III and the Queen Consort.
In a message to the Swiss President, the King stated he was "appalled, and greatly saddened" by the fire. He called it "utterly heartbreaking that a night of celebration for young people and families instead turned to such nightmarish tragedy," and praised the efforts of the emergency services.
Swiss authorities have urged public caution to avoid further straining overwhelmed medical facilities. The investigation into the exact cause and circumstances of the fire continues.
