GLOBIVOX

A devastating fire tore through a crowded bar at a Swiss ski resort during New Year celebrations, killing at least 40 people and leaving 115 others injured, officials said. The incident occurred late at night when the venue was packed with locals and tourists welcoming the New Year.

According to preliminary reports, the fire spread rapidly inside the bar, causing panic among partygoers. Thick smoke and flames made evacuation difficult, forcing many to flee in chaos. Emergency services rushed to the scene, deploying fire engines, ambulances, and rescue teams to control the blaze and assist victims.

Rescue officials confirmed that several of the injured are in critical condition and have been shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment. Authorities said the high number of casualties was due to overcrowding and the rapid spread of smoke within the enclosed space.

Firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control after several hours, while police cordoned off the area for investigation. The exact cause of the fire remains unknown, though officials have not ruled out electrical faults or flammable decorative materials used during the celebration.

Swiss authorities have ordered a detailed inquiry into the incident and announced support for victims and their families. Local administrations are also reviewing safety measures at entertainment venues, particularly those hosting large holiday gatherings.

The tragedy has cast a shadow over New Year celebrations across Switzerland, with leaders and citizens expressing grief and solidarity with the affected families.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of confusion and fear as flames engulfed parts of the bar within minutes. Several survivors said emergency exits were difficult to access due to the crowd, while others reported that visibility dropped sharply because of heavy smoke. Many people were rescued by firefighters using breathing equipment, while others managed to escape through broken windows.

Local authorities confirmed that tourists from multiple countries were among those injured, adding to the complexity of rescue and medical coordination. Hospitals in nearby towns activated emergency protocols to accommodate the influx of patients, with medical staff working through the night.

Officials said cold weather conditions and the resort’s remote location initially slowed emergency access, though rescue teams eventually managed to stabilise the situation. Temporary shelters were set up for survivors who were unable to return to their accommodations.

The Swiss government expressed condolences to the families of the victims and assured that all necessary assistance would be provided. Foreign embassies have been notified as authorities work to identify victims and inform relatives.

Fire safety experts have raised concerns about crowd management and fire preparedness at holiday venues, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Authorities are expected to conduct inspections at similar establishments nationwide in the coming days.

As investigations continue, the focus remains on supporting survivors and ensuring accountability, while the nation mourns one of the deadliest fire incidents in recent years during New Year festivities.