Investigators Race to Identify Victims of Deadly Swiss Ski Resort Fire

Swiss investigators are working urgently to identify the victims of a devastating fire that ripped through a crowded bar in the Alpine resort of Crans-Montana, killing around 40 people and injuring approximately 115 others, many of them seriously.

The blaze broke out shortly after 1.30am on New Year’s Day at Le Constellation, a popular venue among tourists. Authorities said it could take days or even weeks to identify all victims, describing the process as complex due to the severity of the incident and the international profile of those present.

Swiss President Guy Parmelin described the tragedy as “a calamity of unprecedented proportions” and announced that flags will be flown at half-mast for five days in national mourning.

Police commander Frederic Gisler said foreign nationals are likely among the victims, while investigators are examining whether safety regulations were fully observed at the venue.

Witnesses described chaotic scenes as people attempted to escape the flames, smashing windows and fleeing into the streets. Authorities confirmed the incident was not an attack, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Hospitals in Switzerland and neighbouring countries have treated the injured, with France and Italy confirming that some of their citizens were among those affected.