Swiss New Year’s Eve Bar Fire Kills 40, Injures Over 100

A devastating fire at a bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, on New Year’s Eve has killed around 40 people and injured at least 115, authorities said.

The blaze broke out at approximately 01:30 local time at Le Constellation bar, which was reportedly hosting a young, festive crowd. Sixty victims are being treated at Sion hospital, with many in critical condition, while others receive care elsewhere.

Swiss President Guy Parmelin described the incident as “one of the worst tragedies our country has experienced.”

Witnesses suggested the fire may have started from “birthday candles” placed on a champagne bottle, though the attorney general said the cause has not been confirmed.

One survivor recounted, “I managed to break a window… Half of my clothes were gone. It was crazy.”