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Teenager Dies in Swiss Bar Fire, Tragedy Mounts
1 Feb
Summary
- An 18-year-old Swiss national died, increasing the fire's death toll to 41.
- Victims ranged from 14 to 39 years old, mostly teenagers.
- An investigation suggests sparklers on champagne bottles ignited ceiling foam.
A tragic New Year's Day fire at Le Constellation bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana has claimed another life. An 18-year-old Swiss national, injured in the blaze, died in a Zurich hospital on January 31, 2026. This brings the total fatalities to 41. The victims, aged between 14 and 39, were predominantly teenagers. Of the 41 deceased, 23 were Swiss nationals and 18 were foreign nationals from countries including France, Italy, Belgium, Portugal, Romania, and Turkey. Additionally, 115 people sustained injuries, with many still undergoing treatment. Investigations suggest the fire may have started when sparklers on champagne bottles ignited sound insulation foam in the bar's basement. A criminal investigation is underway, with four individuals, including the bar's co-owners and local public safety officials, under scrutiny. Seriously injured patients were airlifted to hospitals and burns units across Switzerland and four other European countries. As of February 1, 2026, 44 patients were being treated abroad, with 37 remaining in Swiss hospitals. The situation is dynamic, with patient transfers and ongoing intensive care treatment.
