Tragedy struck a luxury Swiss ski resort as a raging inferno tore through a multi-storey building in Crans-Montana, killing at least 40 tourists and leaving no fewer than 115 others injured.
The fire erupted at a packed bar inside the resort as tourists welcomed the New Year, turning a night of celebration into scenes of horror and chaos. Flames spread rapidly through the building, trapping occupants and forcing desperate escape attempts.
Local police said many victims were pulled from the blaze with severe burns, while others remain in critical condition in nearby hospitals.
A police spokesperson, Beatrice Pillourd, said the full death toll may rise as emergency crews continue rescue and recovery operations. “The exact number of casualties will be known later,” she said, confirming that a full investigation has been launched.
Emergency services battled the flames through the night as smoke and fire engulfed the resort, leaving devastation in one of Switzerland’s most popular tourist destinations.
