Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Tragic New Year's Eve Fire Claims 40 Lives in Switzerland

1/6/2026

50 12 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Forty people died and 119 were injured in a fire at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, on New Year’s Eve.
Authorities say the blaze began around 1:30 AM and was ignited by sparklers near the ceiling.
Victims included 21 Swiss nationals and several Italian teenagers.
Repatriation of the bodies has begun as hospitals treat burn victims.
A national day of mourning is scheduled for January 9.

History

Historical Context

The 2023 fire at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana recalls the 2003 Station nightclub fire in Rhode Island, which killed 100 due to poor safety measures. This tragedy prompted significant changes in U.S. fire safety regulations. The Swiss incident underscores ongoing global concerns about public safety in entertainment venues, emphasizing the urgent need for stricter safety standards during large gatherings.

1 of 2

Story summary

Forty people died and 119 were injured in a fire at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, on New Year’s Eve.
Authorities say the blaze began around 1:30 AM and was ignited by sparklers near the ceiling.
Victims included 21 Swiss nationals and several Italian teenagers.
Repatriation of the bodies has begun as hospitals treat burn victims.
A national day of mourning is scheduled for January 9.

1 / 2