Deadly New Year’s eve fire kills dozens at Swiss ski resort party

Dozens are thought to have been killed and around 100 injured by the fire, which broke out in the early hours of New Year's Day. Police Cantonale Valaisanne

Dozens of people are presumed dead and around 100 others injured after a fire tore through a packed New Year’s party at a nightclub in the Swiss ski resort of Crans Montana, turning celebrations into chaos within seconds.

The blaze broke out in the early hours of New Year’s Day at one of the resort’s busiest venues, where witnesses say more than 200 people were inside at the time. Police said the area has been sealed off, a no-fly zone imposed, and a full investigation launched. Authorities stressed that the incident is being treated as a fire, not a terror attack.

Read also: Breaking: Fire outbreak reported at Arena Market, Oshodi

Two witnesses told French broadcaster BFMTV that the fire may have started from sparklers attached to champagne bottles being carried by staff during the celebration.

“There were waitresses carrying champagne bottles with sparklers on them, and they lifted them close to the ceiling, which caused them to catch fire,” one witness said. Another added that the flames were just centimetres from the ceiling moments before the fire spread. “Once the ceiling was on fire, within about ten seconds, the entire nightclub was on fire. We all ran out screaming.”

Emergency services mounted a massive response, deploying around 40 ambulances and 10 helicopters, while 150 medical personnel were mobilised. Images from the aftermath show a burned-out interior with destroyed furniture and emergency vehicles stationed outside.

Read also: Fire razes properties worth millions in Ikotun, Lagos market

Crans-Montana, one of Switzerland’s most exclusive alpine resorts, is known for attracting wealthy tourists and international visitors, particularly during the holiday season. Swiss authorities said foreign nationals from several countries are likely to be among the victims.

Guy Parmelin, Swiss Confederation president, described the incident as a national tragedy. “What should have been a happy occasion on the first day of the year has turned into a tragic loss that touches the whole country and far beyond,” he said.

French president Emmanuel Macron also offered condolences, saying France stood in “full solidarity” with Switzerland. France’s foreign ministry confirmed that two French nationals were injured and had been taken into care.

Read also: Five decisions boards and business leaders must make now — The 2026 playbook

The fire occurred despite a fireworks ban imposed by local authorities ahead of New Year’s Eve due to extreme fire risk caused by weeks without rainfall. Officials said it remains too early to determine the exact cause of the blaze, warning that the investigation will take time.

Police said further updates will be released as more information becomes available.

Faith Omoboye is a foreign affairs correspondent with background in History and International relations. Her work focuses on African politics, diplomacy, and global governance.

Join BusinessDay whatsapp Channel, to stay up to date