A devastating fire tore through the Le Constellation bar at the Crans-Montana ski resort in southwestern Switzerland in the early hours of New Year’s Day, killing around forty people and injuring more than one hundred, including an Australian national who is receiving medical treatment.

The blaze broke out at about half past one in the morning as revellers gathered to welcome two thousand twenty-six, swiftly engulfing the crowded venue and overwhelming narrow exits that trapped many inside.

Swiss authorities have confirmed that the incident, described by the Swiss Federal President as one of the worst tragedies in recent history, is being treated as an accident with no indication of deliberate harm.

Initial investigations suggest the fire was likely sparked when sparklers attached to champagne bottles were waved too close to the bar’s ceiling, igniting flammable materials and causing a rapid flashover that accelerated the blaze.

Emergency services mobilised dozens of ambulances, helicopters and rescue workers to evacuate and treat the wounded, with many burn victims transferred to specialised hospitals across Switzerland and neighbouring countries due to the severity of their injuries.

Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade said the Australian injured person is in care, with consular assistance provided to their family as authorities work to determine whether any other Australians were affected.

Survivors recounted chaotic scenes of smoke, flames and frantic attempts to escape, with some having to break windows to flee.

Swiss officials continue efforts to identify the dead, a process expected to take days given the condition of many victims, and are scrutinising compliance with safety standards at the venue.

The resort town of Crans-Montana, a popular destination for international tourists and upcoming ski events, remains under shock as communities mourn and support extends to affected families across Europe and beyond.