Swiss authorities say the blast at Le Constellation Bar and Lounge is being treated as accidental and fire-related, with no indication of a terror attack, as rescue and investigation efforts continue
BY PC Bureau
January 1, 2026 — New Year’s Eve celebrations turned tragic in the early hours of Thursday after a powerful explosion tore through the basement of Le Constellation Bar and Lounge in the luxury Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana, triggering a massive fire that killed dozens and injured more than 100 people.
Swiss authorities said “several dozen” people lost their lives, with estimates hovering around 40 fatalities, though officials cautioned that exact numbers are still being verified amid ongoing rescue and recovery operations. More than 100 people suffered injuries, many with severe burns, overwhelming hospitals in the Valais region and forcing transfers to specialized burn units elsewhere in Switzerland.
The explosion occurred at around 1:30 a.m. local time, as more than 150 revelers—including locals, tourists, and international visitors—packed the underground venue to ring in 2026. Police spokesperson Gaëtan Lathion described the incident as “an explosion of unknown origin” followed by a fast-spreading blaze.
Just In!!
Explosion and fire struck Le Constellation Bar in the Swiss ski resort town of Crans-Montana during New Year’s Eve celebrations, leaving several people dead and others critically injured. Authorities are investigating the incident, and further details are awaited. pic.twitter.com/1HF3XM6ned— HTN World (@htnworld) January 1, 2026
Valais canton prosecutor-general Béatrice Pilloud said authorities are treating the incident as accidental, stressing there is no indication of terrorism at this stage. “We are proceeding on the assumption that this was caused by a fire,” she told reporters, adding that investigators are working to determine the precise circumstances.
Local media have speculated that fireworks or pyrotechnics used during a concert may have sparked the blaze, but officials said the cause remains unconfirmed. The bar, partially located underground and reportedly operating with a single main entrance, may have posed evacuation challenges, potentially contributing to the high casualty count.
Emergency Response and Investigation
Emergency services responded swiftly, deploying firefighters, police units, and multiple rescue helicopters, including aircraft from neighboring regions and Italy. Authorities imposed a temporary no-fly zone over Crans-Montana to facilitate air operations, while the area around the venue remains sealed off.
Hospitals across the canton reported an influx of burn victims, with some patients airlifted to facilities in Zurich and other cities. A helpline has been established for families of the victims, and diplomatic channels are active as foreign nationals are believed to be among those affected.
Videos circulating on social media showed thick plumes of black smoke rising from the building and scenes of panic as partygoers fled into the snow-covered streets.
READ: Cigarette Prices to Jump Fourfold from February as Excise Duty Soars
Resort Town in Shock
Located in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Crans-Montana is one of the country’s most popular winter destinations, drawing visitors for skiing, snowboarding, golf, and luxury tourism. The town was crowded with holidaymakers when the tragedy unfolded.
Authorities have declared a special emergency situation in the canton. Victim identification is underway, involving forensic teams, and officials said the process will take time out of respect for bereaved families.
As investigations continue—focusing on fire safety compliance and possible violations—the immediate priority remains supporting survivors and honoring the dead. The incident stands as one of the deadliest nightlife tragedies in Switzerland in recent memory, casting a dark shadow over the start of the new year.
