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A massive fire during New Year celebrations at a bar in Switzerland’s Crans-Montana ski resort has claimed 47 lives. Authorities suspect a flashover phenomenon caused the blaze to spread rapidly. Rescue teams worked overnight to evacuate victims, while forensic investigators continue to examine the site.
New Year Tragedy: 47 Dead in Switzerland Resort Fire, Probe Begins
Bern: A massive fire that broke out during New Year's Eve celebrations in Switzerland's famous ski resort of Crans-Montana has shocked the entire country. The death toll has risen to 47, police and local authorities have confirmed. The fire spread so rapidly that people at the scene had no time to react.
According to officials, the incident occurred at 'Le Constellation' Bar, located in the Alpine region of Valais Canton. A large number of people were present at the bar for New Year's celebrations. Suddenly, a fire broke out and quickly engulfed the entire premises. According to eyewitnesses, smoke and flames spread everywhere within minutes.
Valais Canton Attorney General Beatrice Pilu told a press conference that investigative agencies are investigating whether the fire was caused by a 'flashover.' She said several possibilities are being considered and the exact sequence of events is not yet clear. Eyewitness statements are being recorded, and mobile phones recovered from the scene are also being forensically examined.
According to the American National Fire Protection Association, a flashover occurs when hot gases in a closed space reach the ceiling and spread, causing a sudden, extremely high temperature. This results in flammable materials igniting simultaneously, making it difficult to control the fire.
Swiss authorities have clarified that the incident is not being treated as a terrorist attack. It appears to be an accident, although the final conclusion will only be known after the investigation is complete.
Emergency services remained active throughout the night after the fire broke out. Several ambulances and rescue helicopters were deployed to evacuate the injured and secure the area. The identities of the deceased have not been released. Forensic teams are collecting evidence at the scene, and the administration has assured the families of the victims of all possible assistance.
