Tragic Fire at Le Constellation Bar in Crans-Montana Claims Over 40 Lives and Injures Many, Including French Nationals

A devastating fire broke out in the early hours of January 1, 2026, at Le Constellation, a popular bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, killing more than 40 people and injuring 115 others, many seriously. The venue was crowded with patrons celebrating the New Year when the blaze erupted around 1:30 a.m., trapping young partygoers inside.

Among the victims are numerous adolescents and young adults, with many from local communities and tourists aged mainly 18 to 19 years old. The bar was a well-known social hub in the Valais region, attracting a youthful crowd locally and internationally.

The tragedy has deeply shocked the local community, with a memorial gathering held on January 1, 2026, evening, reflecting grief and disbelief. Young residents expressed their sorrow and bewilderment, questioning the senseless loss of life at such a young age.

French nationals were notably affected: at least nine French people were injured, including the bar’s owner who sustained arm burns, and a 19-year-old trainee footballer from FC Metz suffered severe burns. Several French citizens remain unaccounted for amid ongoing rescue and identification efforts. Italian authorities reported 15 injured and six missing citizens, some hospitalized with severe burns in Milan. Appeals for information on missing persons circulate on social media.

Swiss officials warned that identifying the deceased could take days, prolonging the anguish of waiting families. In response, French hospitals have begun receiving injured victims from Switzerland, with French President Emmanuel Macron expressing France’s solidarity and commitment to assist during this difficult time.

Authorities continue to urge witnesses to come forward as investigations into the cause of the fire proceed. The scale of the disaster and the cross-border nature of the victims have drawn international attention and highlighted the tragic consequences of the incident on a young generation.