10 Killed in Year Bar Explosion in Swiss Resort
An explosion followed by a fire killed at least 10 people and injured dozens more at a packed bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana during New Year’s Eve celebrations, police said on Thursday.
Blast Hits Crowded Venue During New Year Celebrations
According to Swiss police, the blast occurred at around 1:30 a.m. local time at the Le Constellation Bar and Lounge, a two-story venue that was hosting more than 100 people at the time. Authorities confirmed that around 10 others were injured, several of them seriously.
Police told local media that the incident is not being treated as terror-related.
Hospitals Overwhelmed With Burn Victims
Emergency services, including cantonal and municipal police, firefighters, medical teams, and rescue helicopters, were deployed to the scene. Rescue operations were still ongoing hours after the incident.
A doctor from the Swiss air ambulance and rescue service told national broadcaster RTS that nearby hospitals are overwhelmed with burn victims.
Cause of Explosion Still Unknown
The cause of the explosion has not yet been determined, authorities said. While unverified reports on social media suggest the fire may have been triggered by pyrotechnic devices used during a concert at the venue, police have not confirmed these claims.
Area Sealed Off, No-Fly Zone Imposed
Police said the surrounding area has been completely sealed off, and a temporary no-fly zone was imposed to facilitate rescue and emergency response efforts.
Authorities have also set up a helpline for families seeking information about people who were in the Valais resort overnight.
Press Conference Scheduled
A press conference is scheduled for Thursday at 10:00 a.m. local time (09:00 GMT), when authorities are expected to provide further details on the incident.
