About 40 people are dead and another approximately 115 others injured after a fire broke out in a crowded bar at Crans-Montana Ski Resort in southwestern Switzerland.
The fire broke out at 1:30am local time a bar called Le Constellation. Initial reports are the deadly fire was ignited accidentally by a woman who was being carried on the shoulders of another holding a champagne bottle with a sparkler attached to it. The small fire started by the sparkler then triggered a “flashover” or “backdraft” where all combustible materials in a room ignite at once causing an explosion.
Swiss authorities cannot confirm the exact amount of causalities but estimate about 40 people died. Victims could not be immediately identified due to the severity of their burns. Officials warn that some burns are so severe that identification may take a considerable amount of time. An investigation is underway and the area has been completely cordoned off including a no-fly zone has been imposed over the resort.
The following videos were taken inside Le Constellation last night and show what appears to be the start of this catastrophic incident:
The American Embassy in Bern is in close contact with the relevant Swiss authorities and have established a hotline for victims and their families at +41 848 112 117. Consular officials stand ready to provide all necessary assistance to U.S. citizens affected by the fire. In case of emergency, the U.S. Embassy may be reached at +41 31 357 7011. U.S. citizens in Switzerland are encouraged to notify family and friends of their safety.
