New Year's Eve Nightmare: Swiss Ski Resort Explosion Leaves 40 Dead, 100 Injured

Investigation underway as tragedy strikes Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana during New Year's celebrations

Story: Explosion at Swiss Ski Resort Bar on New Year's Eve Claims 40 Lives, Injures 100

Published: January 02, 2026 at 06:01 AM

Story Summary

An explosion and subsequent fire at the popular Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, a Swiss ski resort, during New Year's Eve celebrations have resulted in approximately 40 deaths and 100 injuries. The cause of the explosion remains under investigation, as local hospitals struggle with the high number of casualties. Swiss authorities, expressing shock at one of the country's worst tragedies, have declared five days of mourning.

Full Story

Tragedy Strikes Swiss Ski Resort: New Year's Eve Explosion Claims Dozens of Lives

In an unexpected turn of events, a New Year’s Eve celebration turned into a horrifying tragedy when an explosion and subsequent fire ripped through a popular bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana. The authorities estimate that the disaster claimed around 40 lives and left approximately 100 people severely injured. The cause of the explosion, which occurred in the early hours of January 1, 2026, remains under investigation.

Background and Context

The explosion took place at Le Constellation, a well-known bar popular with tourists and locals alike. The venue was bustling with revellers ringing in the New Year when disaster struck. According to a police spokesman, the explosion occurred around 1:30 a.m. (0030 GMT), followed by a fire that quickly spread through the crowded bar.

Developments and Details

While the exact origin of the explosion remains 'indetermined', the aftermath was severe. Several dozen people are feared dead, with the death toll still being assessed as of the latest reports. Emergency services worked tirelessly throughout the night, responding to the powerful blast and subsequent blaze. The fire is suspected to have started moments after the explosion, with flames shooting across the ceiling, as described by partygoers.

The high number of casualties has put local hospitals under strain. Among the injured, two French nationals and an Australian citizen have been confirmed, as reported by Le Monde and The Guardian. The scale of the tragedy has led authorities to rule out the possibility of an attack, according to the prosecutor of the canton, Beatrice Pilloud.

Reactions and Implications

The tragedy has left the popular ski resort and the entire nation in a state of shock. Guy Parmelin, President of the Swiss Confederation, during a press conference, expressed his condolences for one of the worst tragedies that the country has ever known. In response to the tragedy, Switzerland will hold five days of mourning.

Swiss authorities, along with local and international emergency services, continue to work diligently in the aftermath of the disaster. A reception center and helpline have been established for impacted families, and an ongoing investigation is being conducted to determine the cause of the explosion and fire.

Current Status

At present, the priority is to identify the victims and provide support to the injured and affected families. Further, there is an ongoing effort to understand the cause of the explosion and subsequent fire. As the popular ski resort town comes to terms with this devastating event, the world watches and mourns alongside them. Meanwhile, the investigation continues, with hopes of providing answers and perhaps some closure to this tragic event.