New Year horror in Switzerland: Dozens feared dead in Crans-Montana bar explosion

Authorities said the deceased include people of multiple nationalities, confirming the international nature of the victims in the popular tourist destination.

The blast occurred at Le Constellation bar around 1:30 am local time, when revellers had gathered to usher in the New Year.

Videos circulating on social media showed the bar engulfed in flames as celebrations were underway.

Beatrice Pilloud, Prosecutor-General of Switzerland’s Valais canton, said an investigation has been launched “to identify the circumstances which caused this dramatic situation to occur,” the BBC reported. She added that there was no indication of an attack.

Officials said efforts are ongoing to identify the victims and facilitate the return of bodies to their respective families.

A massive rescue operation was launched, involving 10 helicopters, 40 ambulances and around 150 emergency responders.

Authorities have urged residents and visitors to avoid rushing to hospitals unnecessarily, warning that medical facilities are already under severe strain.

Crans-Montana, located in Switzerland’s Sierre district, has a permanent population of just over 10,000 people.