A catastrophic fire broke out in the Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, in the early hours of New Year’s Day. Tragically, it resulted in the loss of one life and left 10 others with injuries. The spill occurred in one of Switzerland’s elite enclaves. This beautiful region has magnificent alpine scenery, including wonderful views from the Matterhorn to Montblanc, and all at a relatively low altitude of 1,500m.
Officials have called the fire one of the deepest tragedies in Switzerland’s history. Tragically, nearly 40 of our fellow humans have died, and about 115 more have been injured, many in a very serious manner. Emergency responders were on the scene within two minutes of the activation of the alarm. Sadly, the extent of the tragedy had already started to show its full impact.
Eyewitness testimony depicts a frenzied environment as clubgoers tried to flee the fire that swiftly consumed the establishment. In this horrendous tragedy, sparklers stuck inside champagne bottles are said to have ignited the blaze.
Details of the Incident
The Le Constellation bar features two bars and has a capacity of 300 people. It features an exclusive shisha smoking area and a 40-pax terrace as well. What began as a celebratory atmosphere quickly became one of horror as the fire erupted, trapping hundreds inside.
Samuel Rapp, an eyewitness to the pandemonium, recounted an apocalyptic scene during his testimony as he realized things had taken a serious turn for the worst.
“There were people screaming, and then people lying on the ground, probably dead. They had jackets over their faces.” – Samuel Rapp
Videos posted from the scene show the terror as people, appearing to be among these unwanted guests, fled the scene in panic. Rapp recounted further chilling details:
“Then I received videos where people were trying to get out, but they were trampling over each other, so it was hard to get out through the exit. And there were people shouting, saying, ‘Help me. Please help us.’” – Samuel Rapp
The tragedy would lead to an inspiringly immediate and courageous outcry from leaders, at home and abroad. Swiss President Guy Parmelin said he was “deeply saddened.” He called his passing a “tragic loss that affects our entire nation and well beyond.”
“Once the ceiling was on fire, within about 10 seconds the entire nightclub was on fire.” – Eyewitness to BFMTV
Government Response and Support
French President Emmanuel Macron offered support, declaring “the full solidarity of France and our fraternal support” during this unprecedented time of grief.
As investigations proceed, officials are zeroing in on figuring out how the sparklers caused such a devastating fire in the popular club. The local police have released footage showing the interior of Le Constellation bar, including its terrace area before the disaster unfolded.
The Crans-Montana community will be heartbroken in the wake of this tragic incident. This traumatic incident raised important questions regarding safety precautions at large venues. As one of the most important Le Constellation’s residents and visitors were shocked. What originally was to be a night of celebration became a night of mourning almost immediately with the unexpected and swift devastation.
Community Reaction and Mourning
That’s what local authorities are doing now as they work together with emergency services and criminal investigators. Their intention is to deeply analyze the safety protocols implemented at similar venues throughout Switzerland.
Local authorities are now working closely with emergency services and investigators to ensure a thorough examination of safety protocols in place at similar establishments throughout Switzerland.
