Switzerland is in mourning after a devastating fire in a crowded bar killed about 40 people and injured 115 in the Alpine ski resort of Crans-Montana. The blaze started at 1:30 am during a New Year’s Eve party at Le Constellation bar. Witnesses said sparklers or flares in champagne bottles caused the fire, which quickly spread to the basement nightclub filled with partygoers. Swiss President Guy Parmelin called it “a drama of an unknown scale” and one of the country’s most traumatic events. He honoured the many young lives lost and urged that such a tragedy must never happen again. The fire broke out just after midnight, with flames lighting up the ceiling and spreading rapidly. Many guests, including teenagers, were trapped in the narrow basement using tight stairs. Rescue efforts were swift, with police and firefighters arriving two minutes after the first emergency call. Emergency teams sent 42 ambulances and 13 helicopters to help the victims. Hospitals in Sion, Lausanne, Geneva, and Zurich treated the injured, many with serious burns and lung injuries. Lausanne University Hospital is caring for 22 patients aged 16 to 26, with some in critical condition. Police are investigating the exact cause. A police officer confirmed the basement stairs were very narrow but said it was too soon to conclude details about emergency exits. Some blame is also speculated on shisha charcoals spilling and igniting the fire. The tragedy has shaken the small resort town of around 10,000 people. Locals and visitors mourn outside the bar, now a crime scene with police tents. Authorities called the blaze an "embrasement généralisé," a violent flashover fire phenomenon. Italy reported 16 nationals missing and 12 injured among the victims. The investigation continues as authorities work to identify the deceased and support their families. Crans-Montana is known for skiing and wealthier tourists, but Le Constellation bar was popular mainly with younger visitors. The town's leaders called for caution in the coming days to avoid further accidents and ease hospital loads.