New Year’s celebration turns tragic
A devastating fire tore through a crowded bar in the Swiss ski resort town of Crans-Montana during New Year’s celebrations, killing dozens of people and leaving many more injured. The venue, Le Constellation, was popular with teenagers and young adults, many of whom had gathered to celebrate the start of the year.
Survivors described scenes of panic, chaos, and extreme suffering as flames spread rapidly through the packed space. Several said they are still struggling to process what they witnessed.
Witnesses recall desperate escape attempts
Nineteen-year-old survivor Nathan Huguenin said he has been unable to sleep since escaping the fire. He described seeing people being resuscitated, severely burned, and dying in front of him, saying the images continue to replay whenever he closes his eyes.
Others described desperate attempts to escape as smoke filled the bar. Some people forced windows open using furniture, while others tried to smash the glass from inside as flames spread. Witnesses outside the bar said they could see people running through fire and collapsing as they made it out.
A popular gathering spot for young people
Le Constellation was known as a busy venue for teenagers, particularly because local laws allow the consumption of beer and wine from the age of 16. On New Year’s Eve, the bar was reportedly at full capacity, with additional people attempting to enter through side doors.
Several witnesses said the bar was overcrowded, and thick windows made escape difficult. Some survivors recalled people falling over each other while trying to exit, many suffering severe burns but not immediately feeling pain due to shock and adrenaline.
Ongoing trauma and international response
Many survivors said they remain in shock, having lost friends or still unsure of the fate of those who were with them that night. Swiss authorities confirmed that dozens of injured victims were transferred to specialized burn centers outside the country for treatment.
European officials said assistance would be provided where needed, as investigations continue into the cause of the fire and the circumstances surrounding the venue’s safety conditions.
