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
41deaths41 identified
115injured83 hospitalized
22Swiss victims+ 19 foreign
20minorsamong the victims
Breakdown by nationality (deaths)
| Switzerland | 22 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), then to 115 after one of the injured died on January 31 (41st victim).
Timeline of Major Events
January 1, 202601:30Fire starts — pyrotechnic "fountains" + acoustic foam → flashover
January 101:35First calls to 118 and 144
January 102:15Massive arrival of emergency services — 150+ responders
January 104:00Fire under control
January 2—Criminal investigation opened against managers
January 6—Identification of all 40 initial victims completed
January 914:00National ceremony at CERM Martigny — minute of silence
Cause of the Fire
According to preliminary investigation findings, the fire was started bypyrotechnic "fountains" used inside the bar. The sparks ignited the acoustic foam on the ceiling, causing aflashover (rapid full-room ignition) within seconds.
Investigators also noted the absence of smoke detectorsand inadequate emergency exits.
Explore Sections
Need Help?
Are you a relative of a victim?
- LAVI Center Valais: 027 606 30 30
- La Main Tendue: 143 (24/7)
- Pro Juventute: 147 (young people)