Forty dead in Switzerland New Year’s resort blaze

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Geneva: At least 40 people were killed and 115 others injured following a catastrophic fire at a luxury ski resort in Switzerland during New Year’s celebrations. The blaze erupted at "Le Constellation," a popular bar in the Alpine town of Crans-Montana, as revelers gathered to mark the holiday.

Regional police commander Frederic Gisler confirmed the death toll on Thursday, noting that the majority of the 115 injured remain in serious condition. Local authorities in the Wallis canton have launched an intensive operation to identify the victims and notify their families, many of whom are believed to be international tourists visiting the resort for the winter season.

Swiss President Guy Parmelin addressed the nation following the incident, describing the fire as "one of the worst tragedies" in the country’s history. Officials have clarified that while the cause of the fire is under investigation, there is no evidence to suggest a terrorist motive. The fire reportedly broke out at approximately 1:30 am, quickly engulfing the venue, which was at full capacity at the time.

The scale of the disaster has overwhelmed local infrastructure, with Mathias Reynard, head of the Valais regional government, stating that intensive care units and operating theaters at regional hospitals reached full capacity shortly after the victims arrived.

Crans-Montana, located roughly two hours from the capital of Bern, is a premier destination in the heart of the Alps and is scheduled to host the FIS World Cup speed skiing event later this month.