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Swiss Ski Resort Fire Kills 40 on New Year's Eve; Sparklers Investigated

A devastating fire at the 'Le Constellation' bar in the Crans-Montana ski resort has killed over 40 people, with several others critically injured. Swiss authorities have declared a national day of remembrance and are prioritizing the investigation into whether ordinary supermarket sparklers ignited the blaze. The popular alpine resort, a major global tourist destination, is now the scene of a profound tragedy. This incident follows another significant hotel fire in Geneva just months earlier, raising concerns about safety in Swiss hospitality venues.

Key Points: 40 Dead in Swiss Ski Resort Bar Fire, Sparklers Investigated

  • Over 40 fatalities in Crans-Montana bar fire
  • Sparklers from supermarket under investigation
  • National day of remembrance declared on Jan. 9
  • Resort is a major global tourist destination
2 min read

40 dead, several fighting for their lives: Swiss authorities on deadly ski resort fire incident

Over 40 dead in a New Year's Eve fire at a Swiss Alps bar. Authorities are investigating if ordinary sparklers caused the blaze. National day of mourning declared.

"It is a tragedy for Switzerland, for Europe, and for the entire world. - State Council President Mathias Reynard"

Zurich, Jan 2

Over 40 people have died and several are still fighting for their lives in the violent fire that ravaged the 'Le Constellation' bar in Crans-Montana ski resort in Valais Canton of southwestern Switzerland on New Year's Eve, the Swiss authorities told media on Friday evening.

"It is a tragedy for Switzerland, for Europe, and for the entire world," said State Council President Mathias Reynard who opened the press conference, adding that January 9 will be a national day of remembrance for the victims of the tragedy.

According to Zurich-based leading Swiss German-language national daily Tages-Anzeiger, Attorney General Beatrice Pilloud said that the theory that the sparklers caused the fire is being investigated as a priority.

Pilloud mentioned that the sparklers were ordinary ones, readily available at any supermarket. The club did not require a permit to light them indoors.

"When questioned by a journalist, prosecutor Beatrice Pilloud explained that the sparklers were ordinary ones, readily available at any supermarket. The club did not require a permit to light them indoors. According to Pilloud, the theory that the sparklers caused the fire is being investigated as a priority," the newspaper reported.

Pierre-Antoine Lengen, head of the Valais cantonal police, reiterated that every effort is being made to quickly identify the victims.

Crans-Montana, situated in the heart of the scenic Swiss Alps, is one of Switzerland's most popular tourist destinations, drawing visitors from around the world for skiing, snowboarding, golf and other leisure activities.

The resort town is located approximately two hours from the Swiss capital, Bern.

The incident comes just months after a separate fire broke out at Switzerland's oldest luxury hotel in Geneva.

That blaze at the iconic Four Seasons Hotel Des Bergues, which opened in 1834 and is regarded as a historic landmark, had left several people injured.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

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Rohit P
Terrible news. Crans-Montana is such a famous spot. I have friends who ski there. Makes you think about fire safety in crowded bars and clubs, especially during New Year. We have similar issues during Diwali with fireworks, but indoors? That's a whole different level of risk. Hope the investigation is swift.
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David E
A national day of remembrance is the least they can do. The scale of this is horrific. As someone who travels often, this hits close to home. Tourist destinations worldwide must prioritize safety over ambiance. No permit needed for indoor sparklers? That rule needs to change yesterday.
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Anjali F
So many young people must have been there for New Year's. It's a parent's worst nightmare. While we express solidarity with Switzerland, I respectfully think our media should also give this level of detailed coverage to tragedies in our own region sometimes. The loss of life is equally tragic everywhere.
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Vikram M
Sparklers from a supermarket... unthinkable. This is a stark reminder that safety can't be taken for granted, even in a developed country like Switzerland. Our fire departments in Indian cities need to take note and maybe conduct more surprise checks at pubs and hotels during the festive season.
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Sarah B
The second major fire in Switzerland in months? That's a worrying pattern. My heart goes out to all affected. Identifying the victims quickly is crucial for closure. Hope the injured pull through.

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