Dozens killed in Swiss ski resort explosion

A fire broke out at Le Constellation, a bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, on New Year’s Eve, resulting in dozens of fatalities and over 100 injuries. The incident occurred at approximately 1:30am local time.

According to police, the fire was reportedly sparked by an explosion of unknown origin. The bar, located in the center of the luxury ski resort town, is a popular tourist destination. At the time of the incident, more than 100 people were present.

Police officials confirmed that “several dozens” of people were presumed dead, although the exact number has not been specified. Over 100 people were also injured, with most suffering significant injuries and severe burns.

The Italian foreign ministry later reported that approximately 40 people had died in the incident. Hospitals in French-speaking Switzerland have reportedly been overwhelmed with burn victims, with many patients being transferred to other facilities due to capacity constraints.

Police responded quickly to the scene, deploying 10 helicopters, 40 ambulances, and 150 responders. The area around the bar has been closed off to the public, and a no-fly zone has been imposed over Crans-Montana.

An investigation into the cause of the explosion is ongoing, with police stating that they are currently favoring a fire as the likely cause. However, it is unclear at this time what may have triggered the blast.

In recent years, explosions in Switzerland have been relatively rare and minor. In June 2024, an explosion occurred in an underground parking garage, resulting in two fatalities and 11 injuries.

Source: Al Jazeera