Several dozen people were killed and at least 100 others injured after a fire broke out during a New Year celebration at a bar in southwest Switzerland, police said on Thursday.
The fire occurred at Le Constellation in Crans Montana, located in the heart of the Swiss Alps, at about 1:30 a.m., according to police who briefed journalists at a news conference.
Beatrice Pilloud, attorney general of the Valais canton, ruled out any kind of “attack” and said the area would remain closed as investigations continue.
Valais police commander Frédéric Gisler said authorities were “stunned” by the scale of the incident, adding that police, fire and rescue teams were immediately deployed to the scene.
Officials confirmed the area has been cordoned off, with a no fly zone established over Crans Montana to support emergency operations and investigations.
Authorities also set up a helpline for people seeking information about relatives and loved ones who may have been affected.
An evening meant for celebration quickly became “a nightmare,” Valais government president Mathias Reynard said, as he offered condolences to the families of the victims.
Crans Montana attracts about 3 million visitors a year, according to its tourism agency, underscoring concerns over safety at major festive gatherings.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
About the Author
