A devastating fire at a bar in the Crans-Montana ski resort has killed 40 people and left approximately 100 injured, many critically, according to local authorities.
Switzerland’s head of state, Guy Parmelin, described the incident as among the most catastrophic disasters the nation has witnessed. Speaking publicly about the tragedy, Parmelin noted that the majority of victims were young people and announced that national flags would be lowered to half-staff for five days in mourning.
The president emphasized the painful irony of such devastation occurring at a location meant for celebration and enjoyment, calling the contrast deeply disturbing.
Law enforcement official Frederic Gisler, who commands the police force in Valais Canton, provided the casualty figures during a briefing with reporters. He confirmed the death toll and the significant number of people receiving treatment for injuries sustained in the blaze.
The victims include visitors from other countries who were at the resort when the fire erupted.
Social media footage circulating online appears to show flames spreading across a ceiling, with some posts suggesting the fire may have started when a server presented a champagne bottle with a sparkler attached.
When questioned about whether such sparklers were being used at the establishment, regional prosecutor Beatrice Pilloud declined to verify those details. She stated that investigators would examine all safety protocols as part of their inquiry, but cautioned that it remains premature to reach any definitive conclusions about the cause or circumstances of the fire.
