Picture Credit :@ItalyMFA_int/X
The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) stated that around 40 people have died and 100 others have been injured in a non-arson fire at the ‘Le Constellation’ bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, citing information provided by the Valais Cantonal Police.
According to ANI, In a statement, the Italian MFA said the victims are currently unidentifiable due to severe burns, noting that a collection point for family members has been established at the Regent Conference Centre in Crans-Montana.
‘According to information provided by the Valais Cantonal Police, there are approximately 40 deaths and 100 injuries due to the non-arson fire that occurred at the Constellation bar last night in Crans-Montana. The victims cannot be identified due to the severe burns they suffered. A collection point for family members has been set up at the Regent conference center in Crans-Montana,’ the statement read.
Min @Antonio_Tajani is in Crans-Montana to be close to the families of the victims🗣️”Together with the Swiss authorities, to whom we reiterate our solidarity and support, we are doing everything possible to deal with this emergency. A prayer in this place of sorrow”. https://t.co/xn6p9IjnMr
— Italy MFA (@ItalyMFA_int) January 2, 2026
However, as per Cantonal Police Commander Frederic Gisler, the bar fire had killed several dozen and left 100 others injured, CNN reported.
The Italian MFA further added that the Italian Ambassador to Switzerland and the Italian Consul General in Geneva are travelling to the site of the incident for assessment.
According to the Valais Cantonal Police, the fire broke out on New Year’s Eve at approximately 1.30 am at the ‘Le Constellation’ bar.
Significant police, fire, and rescue forces responded immediately to the scene, and a large-scale emergency operation is ongoing.
The area has been completely cordoned off, and a no-fly zone has been established over Crans-Montana, the police said in their statement.
‘Significant police, fire, and rescue forces immediately responded to the scene to assist the numerous victims. The operation is still ongoing. The area is completely closed off. A no-fly zone has been established over Crans-Montana,’ the statement read.
Following the incident, the President of the Swiss Confederation, Guy Parmelin, expressed grief over the tragedy, noting that a ‘moment of joy turned into a tragedy’.
