Early on New Year's Day 2026, a fire erupted at Le Constellation, a popular bar in Crans-Montana, Swiss Alps. Around 1:30 am, flames started near the wooden ceiling in the basement, where hundreds of young people were celebrating. Witnesses said a bartender carried a female staff member holding a champagne bottle with a lit sparkler, possibly causing the fire. The flames spread quickly, creating an intense flashover. Emma and Albane, survivors, said, “The whole ceiling was in flames and the fire spread really fast. It happened in seconds.” People tried to escape through a narrow stairway and by breaking windows, but the smoke and fire caused panic and chaos. Axel Clavier, 16, used a table to break a plexiglass pane to flee the blaze. Outside, bystanders rushed to help trapped victims. Emergency services, including about 40 ambulances and 10 helicopters, responded swiftly. Hospitals treated many injured, mainly aged 16 to 26. Valais police said about 40 people died and 115 were injured. Swiss President Guy Parmelin called it a tragic day for the country and said flags will be at half-mast for five days. Valais attorney general Beatrice Pilloud said, “At no moment is there a question of any kind of attack.” The investigation is ongoing, with no arrests made. Locals mourned at the scene, laying flowers for the victims as forensic teams worked. This fire may be one of Switzerland’s worst recent disasters, turning a night of celebration into a day of sorrow.