A tragic explosion has shattered New Year celebrations at a popular ski resort in Switzerland, leaving a trail of death and destruction. Several dozen people are confirmed dead and many more injured after a powerful blast ripped through a crowded bar in the upscale Alpine destination of Crans-Montana.
New Year's Eve Celebration Turns to Tragedy
The catastrophe struck in the early hours of the new year. Swiss police reported that the explosion occurred at around 1:30 a.m. local time on January 1, 2026. The venue, known as Le Constellation, was packed with revellers welcoming 2026. Initial reports indicate that more than 100 people were inside the bar when the incident happened, leading to a high number of casualties.
Massive Emergency Response and Rising Toll
Emergency services, including police, firefighters, and medical teams, worked through the night in a desperate rescue effort. The response was significant, with several helicopters deployed to airlift the injured from the scene. Many of the victims suffered from severe burns. Police Commander Frederic Gisler of the Wallis canton described the scene as devastating, stating that several dozen people are presumed to have died. Authorities have warned that the number of casualties is expected to rise as recovery operations continue.
Investigation Underway, Cause Unknown
The origin of the explosion remains a mystery. A police spokesperson confirmed the blast was of unknown origin and that investigations are still at an early stage. To facilitate the emergency operation and the ongoing probe, the entire area has been sealed off and a no-fly zone imposed over Crans-Montana. Officials highlighted that the resort's international fame and the large number of tourists present likely contributed to the high casualty count. The public has been urged to avoid the area while the investigation and emergency response are ongoing.
