World
At Least 40 Dead and 115 Injured in Deadly Le Constellation Bar Fire in Crans-Montana
CRANS-MONTANA, Switzerland — A devastating fire at a popular bar in the Swiss ski resort town of Crans-Montana has left approximately 40 people dead and at least 100 others injured following New Year’s Eve celebrations, authorities confirmed.
Many of the victims are reported to be teenagers and young adults in their 20s.
The fire broke out shortly after 1:30 a.m. on January 1 at Le Constellation, a well-known bar and nightclub where hundreds of people had gathered to welcome the new year.
According to officials, the venue was crowded when the blaze ignited and spread rapidly, creating chaos and panic among patrons.
Preliminary findings suggest the fire may have been accidentally triggered by sparklers or candles, possibly attached to a champagne bottle, which ignited wooden ceiling elements or other flammable materials inside the venue.
Authorities have stated there is no indication of terrorism or criminal intent, describing the incident as a tragic accident.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Witnesses described thick smoke filling the bar within moments, as guests struggled to escape through narrow exits.
Some reportedly broke windows and forced doors open to flee the flames. Emergency services responded with a massive deployment of ambulances, firefighters, and rescue helicopters, while nearby streets and buildings were converted into temporary triage and treatment areas.
Approximately 115 people sustained injuries, many suffering from severe burns and smoke inhalation.
Hospitals across the Valais region quickly reached capacity, prompting the transfer of critically injured patients to medical facilities in Lausanne, Geneva, and Zurich. Officials confirmed that several victims are foreign nationals, complicating identification and notification efforts.
Authorities have sealed off the building as forensic teams work to determine how the fire spread so quickly.
Officials cautioned that identifying all victims will take time due to the severity of injuries and the scale of the incident.
The tragedy has deeply shaken Crans-Montana, an internationally known resort destination celebrated for winter tourism and holiday festivities.
Swiss officials and national leaders have expressed condolences to the victims’ families, while grief counselors and support services have been made available to survivors, families, and the wider community.
The incident is being described as one of the deadliest civilian disasters in recent Swiss history, casting a somber shadow over what was meant to be a night of celebration.
A significant police operation is underway at the Trondheim Synagogue in Trondheim, Norway, as authorities respond to a developing security situation in the area.
Witnesses reported a heavy police presence surrounding the synagogue, with officers seen wearing ballistic vests, helmets, and carrying rifles and protective shields while securing the location.
Authorities have established a cordon around the area, preventing people from entering or leaving while officers conduct their operation.
According to reports, one individual may have fled the scene in a vehicle, prompting police to initiate a search for the vehicle as part of the ongoing investigation.
Leif Knutsen, leader of the Mosaic Religious Community in Trondheim, confirmed to the Norwegian news outlet VG that police activity is currently taking place at the synagogue.
“I can confirm that there is an ongoing police operation at the synagogue,” Knutsen said. “The situation is unclear; that’s all I can say right now.”
Local newspaper Adresseavisen reported that residents nearby observed a large number of officers responding to the scene.
A journalist with the outlet also noted that an event had reportedly been scheduled at the synagogue, but due to the unfolding situation, no one is currently allowed to enter or exit the secured area.
The police response comes amid heightened security measures around the synagogue following the Embassy of the United States, Oslo attack that occurred on March 8, which prompted authorities to increase protective measures at several Jewish community sites across the country.
Officials have not yet released further details about the nature of the incident, and the situation remains active and under investigation.
Authorities are expected to provide additional updates as more information becomes available.