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)
| Switzerland | 21 deaths |
| France | 9 deaths (+ 1 Franco-Israeli-British) |
| Italy | 6 deaths (+ 1 Italian-Emirati) |
| Belgium | 1 death |
| Portugal | 1 death |
| Romania | 1 death |
| Turkey | 1 death |
Note: The initial count of 119 injured was corrected to 116 (3 people unrelated to the incident).
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
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.
Explore Sections
Need Help?
Are you a relative of a victim?
- Family contact: line.help@police.vs.ch
- LAVI Center Valais: 027 606 30 30
- La Main Tendue: 143 (24/7)