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The Constellation Tragedy

On the night of January 1, 2026, a devastating fire struck the "Le Constellation" bar in Crans-Montana, killing 41 people and injuring 115. This page provides an overview of the facts, the human toll, and the legal proceedings.

Key Figures

41 deaths 41 identified
115 injured 83 hospitalized
21 Swiss victims + 19 foreign
20 minors ages 14-39

Breakdown by nationality (deaths)

Switzerland21 deaths
France9 deaths (+ 1 Franco-Israeli-British)
Italy6 deaths (+ 1 Italian-Emirati)
Belgium1 death
Portugal1 death
Romania1 death
Turkey1 death

Note: The initial count of 119 injured was corrected to 116 (3 people unrelated to the incident), then to 115 after one of the injured died on January 31 (41st victim).

Timeline of Major Events

January 1, 2026 01:30 Fire starts — pyrotechnic "fountains" + acoustic foam → flashover
January 1 01:35 First calls to 118 and 144
January 1 02:15 Massive arrival of emergency services — 200+ responders
January 1 04:00 Fire under control
January 2 — Criminal investigation opened against managers
January 6 — Identification of all 40 initial victims completed
January 9 14:00 National ceremony at CERM Martigny — minute of silence

View full timeline →

Cause of the Fire

According to preliminary investigation findings, the fire was started by pyrotechnic "fountains" used inside the bar. The sparks ignited the acoustic foam on the ceiling, causing a flashover (rapid full-room ignition) within seconds.

Investigators also noted the absence of smoke detectors and inadequate emergency exits.

Learn more about the investigation →

Explore Sections

Full Timeline

All confirmed events, hour by hour.

Rescue Operations

Resources deployed, intervention summary.

Memorial

Remembrance, January 9 ceremony.

Investigation

Criminal proceedings, charges, procedure.

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