The blaze erupted around 1:30 a.m. at Le Constellation, a popular venue packed with revelers ringing in 2026. Police described a rapid spread of flames, followed by an explosion likely caused by a flashover as the fire intensified.
Valais cantonal police commander Frédéric Gisler told reporters the toll stood at approximately 40 dead, with victims including young people and foreign nationals. Hospitals across Switzerland, and even abroad, treated burn victims as local facilities overflowed.Emergency crews deployed 10 helicopters, dozens of ambulances, and hundreds of personnel. A no-fly zone covered the town, and the site remained sealed for investigation.
Prosecutors ruled out foul play, calling it an apparent accident. Witnesses reported flames racing across the wooden ceiling, possibly ignited by sparklers in champagne bottles or similar pyrotechnics common in celebrations. Officials cautioned the probe continues. Le Constellation, a longtime fixture with space for 300 inside and more on a terrace, drew locals and tourists alike, especially teenagers and young adults during holiday peaks.
Swiss President Guy Parmelin called it one of the nation's worst tragedies, announcing five days of national mourning. Cities like Lucerne canceled fireworks in solidarity. The resort, perched high with panoramic views of the Matterhorn and other peaks, attracts international visitors year-round for skiing and luxury escapes.
Identification efforts proceed slowly amid the chaos. Families gathered for vigils, laying flowers and candles outside the cordoned bar. The disaster casts a shadow over the winter season in one of Europe's premier destinations.
