Deadly Fire at Swiss Ski Resort Bar Leaves Dozens Dead, Witnesses Describe Harrowing Scenes
CRANS-MONTANA, Switzerland — A devastating fire erupted at the Le Constellation bar in the luxury Alpine ski resort town of Crans-Montana during New Year’s Eve celebrations, leaving approximately 40 people dead and more than 100 injured. Eyewitnesses have offered chilling accounts of the horror that unfolded as flames engulfed the venue, turning a night of celebration into a scene of tragedy.
According to survivors, the blaze was sparked by champagne bottles with sparklers, igniting a rapid and uncontrollable fire that trapped many inside. An 18-year-old man recounted his frantic attempts to rescue his younger brother, whom he initially feared was trapped inside. “I thought my little brother was inside so I came and tried to break the window to help people to exit, and after that I went in,” he said. “I saw people burning… I found people burning from head to foot, no clothes anymore. It was very shocking.” Fortunately, his brother escaped unharmed.
Daniella, a witness who was returning home with her husband, described the chaos she encountered. “People were running in all directions, screaming and crying. I saw several people being carried out on stretchers,” she said. “A young man came up to me and said he’d seen hell — things he would never forget. And then I just froze.”
First responders and police have been working tirelessly to identify the victims, many of whom were young visitors to the popular ski destination. The Swiss Police have confirmed the death toll and are coordinating with local authorities to assist families.
Among those who rushed to aid was 19-year-old Gianni Campolo, who responded after a friend escaped the fire. “I have seen horror, and I don’t know what else would be worse than this,” he told French broadcaster TF1. Another survivor, Ferdinand Du Beaudiez, also 19, described his desperate attempts to find loved ones amid the flames. “I went back in to look for my brother, my girlfriend and others,” he said. “I couldn’t think to let them stay in the fire when I was alive outside.” He recalled encountering a severely burned individual in the stairway, whose gender was unrecognizable due to the injuries.
The tragedy has prompted an outpouring of grief and solidarity worldwide. The Federal Emergency Management Agency highlights the importance of fire safety and rapid emergency response in preventing such disasters. Meanwhile, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers guidance on burn injury treatment and psychological support for survivors.
As authorities continue their investigation into the cause and circumstances of the fire, the community mourns the loss of life in what was meant to be a joyous celebration. The incident underscores the critical need for stringent safety measures in public venues, especially during large gatherings.
For those seeking more information or wishing to provide assistance, the International Red Cross has mobilized resources to support victims and their families in the aftermath of the disaster.
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