A devastating New Year's Eve fire at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana has left 40 dead and 119 injured, with European burn units scrambling to treat victims this week. The blaze – now linked to sparkler candles waved near flammable ceilings – turned a celebration into chaos within seconds. 💔
From Champagne to Catastrophe
Social media videos show staff carrying champagne bottles topped with sparklers moments before flames engulfed the basement venue. Thin soundproofing fabric ignited instantly, creating what prosecutor Beatrice Pilloud called a "rapid, very rapid and widespread conflagration."
International Rescue Effort
As of 2026-01-03, 50 critically injured patients have been transferred to specialized hospitals across Europe. Victims include young people from 11 countries, with 71 Swiss nationals among those affected. Valais official Mathias Reynard confirmed many survivors remain in life-threatening condition.
Identification Challenges
Forensic teams face grueling work identifying victims through DNA and dental records. Police Chief Frederic Gisler noted 113 injured have been identified, while the death toll remains provisional. The tragedy serves as a grim reminder of fire risks in crowded venues.
