Dozens of people are believed to have died and about 100 were injured in the fire that broke out in the early hours of the New Year. Police Cantonal Valais
Dozens of people have died and nearly 100 others have been injured when a fire broke out during a New Year's Eve party at a nightclub in the Swiss ski resort Crans Montana, turning the celebration into chaos in seconds.
A fire broke out early on New Year's Day in one of the resort's busiest spots, where witnesses say more than 200 people were inside at the time. Police said the area has been sealed, a no-fly zone has been imposed and a full investigation has been launched. Officials stressed that the incident was not being treated as a terrorist attack, but as a fire.
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Two witnesses told French broadcaster BFMTV that the fire may have started from sparklers attached to champagne bottles being carried by staff during the celebration.
An eyewitness said, “There were waitresses carrying champagne bottles with sparklers on them and they lifted them up to the ceiling, causing them to catch fire.” Another said the flames were just centimeters from the roof moments before the fire spread. “Once the roof caught fire, within about ten seconds, the entire nightclub was on fire. We all ran outside screaming.”
Emergency services responded extensively, deploying approximately 40 ambulances and 10 helicopters, while 150 medical personnel were deployed. Subsequent photos show charred interiors and destroyed furniture and emergency vehicles parked outside.
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Crans-Montana, one of Switzerland's most exclusive alpine resorts, is known for attracting wealthy tourists and international visitors, especially during the holiday season. Swiss officials said the victims were likely to include foreign nationals from several countries.
Swiss Confederation President Guy Parmelin called the incident a national tragedy. “What should have been a joyous occasion on the first day of the year has turned into a tragic loss that has touched the entire country and far beyond,” he said.
French President Emmanuel Macron also expressed condolences, saying that France stood in “full solidarity” with Switzerland. The French Foreign Ministry confirmed that two French citizens were injured and cared for.
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The fire occurred despite a fireworks ban imposed by local authorities ahead of New Year's Eve, as there was a high risk of fire due to no rain for weeks. Officials said it was too early to determine the exact cause of the fire, warning that the investigation would take time.
Police said further updates will be issued as more information becomes available.
