Emergency services, including police, fire brigades, and ambulance teams, rushed to the scene. The injured have been admitted to nearby hospitals, with several reported in critical condition. Authorities have established a no-fly zone over Crans-Montana as rescue operations and investigations continue.
The cause of the explosion remains unclear. Early reports from Swiss media outlet Blick suggest that fireworks used during a New Year’s Eve concert may have triggered the blast and subsequent fire. Forensic teams are now collecting evidence at the site, and witnesses present during the incident are being questioned. Some social media videos show the bar engulfed in flames, although officials have yet to verify these visuals.
Crans-Montana is a renowned luxury ski resort in the Swiss Alps, about a two-hour drive from Bern, attracting large numbers of tourists during the winter and holiday season. The Constellation Bar, located near hotels, ski slopes, and upscale restaurants, is a popular venue for New Year celebrations, parties, and live events. The area’s heavy footfall makes the potential casualty figures particularly concerning.
The resort is also scheduled to host the FIS World Cup speed skiing competition later this month, an event that draws international attention. Authorities have sealed off the vicinity around the bar as a precautionary measure while investigations proceed.
“This is a tragic incident, and our thoughts are with the victims and their families,” a local police spokesperson said. “We are prioritizing rescue operations and gathering evidence to determine the cause of the explosion.”
Swiss authorities have urged the public to avoid the area and cooperate with ongoing emergency and forensic operations. International tourists visiting the region have been advised to follow safety protocols and stay updated through official channels.
As the investigation unfolds, the incident highlights the risks associated with large public gatherings and fireworks displays, particularly in high-traffic tourist destinations. Officials are expected to release further updates on casualties, the cause of the blast, and safety measures in the coming hours.
