The blast occurred around 1:30 am, when more than 100 people were inside the venue, according to Valais cantonal police.
Geneva [Switzerland], January 1, 2025, BNN Web Staff: A powerful explosion sparked a devastating fire at a crowded bar in the Swiss ski resort town of Crans-Montana early Wednesday, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries and placing severe strain on nearby hospitals, Swiss media reported.
The blast occurred around 1:30 am, when more than 100 people were inside the venue, according to Valais cantonal police. Authorities said the cause of the explosion is still under investigation.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene within minutes, launching a large-scale rescue and evacuation operation to extract those trapped inside the burning building. Several victims sustained serious burn injuries, prompting hospitals across French-speaking Switzerland to activate emergency protocols.
A doctor from the Rega air rescue service said medical facilities were struggling to manage the sudden influx of critically injured patients and appealed to the public to avoid unnecessary risks on New Year’s Day in order to reduce pressure on healthcare services.
The impact of the incident extended well beyond the immediate area, with ambulances and helicopters ferrying the injured to multiple hospitals. A witness described the scene as chaotic, saying numerous emergency vehicles were deployed as flames engulfed parts of the establishment.
Authorities have also set up a helpline for families seeking information about loved ones, reachable at 084 811 21 17.
Videos circulating on social media, reportedly filmed outside the Constellation Bar, showed intense flames inside the building as firefighters and emergency teams worked to contain the blaze.
While some local reports suggested fireworks used during New Year’s Eve celebrations may have triggered the fire, police have not confirmed this and maintain that the cause remains unknown.
The incident comes just weeks before Switzerland is set to host the World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting in Davos-Klosters later this month, though officials have not indicated any link between the events.
Valais police said they will hold a press briefing at 10 am to share further details as the investigation continues. Crans-Montana, where the incident occurred, is a high-end alpine resort located roughly two hours from the Swiss capital, Bern.
