Shocking footage circulating on social media appears to capture the first moments of the devastating fire that tore through the Le Constellation bar in the Swiss ski resort town of Crans-Montana, killing dozens of revellers during New Year’s Eve celebrations.
The short video, reportedly recorded inside the venue, shows flames breaking out while music continues to play in the background. In the clip, a man can be seen attempting to put out the fire, as others nearby film the scene on their mobile phones, seemingly unaware of how rapidly the situation would escalate.
Chaos before the tragedy unfolded
According to Swiss authorities, the fire broke out shortly after midnight at Le Constellation, which was packed with partygoers welcoming the New Year. Within minutes, the blaze spread across the crowded interior, filling the space with thick smoke and intense heat.
What initially appeared to some as a manageable incident quickly turned catastrophic. Investigators have said that flammable interior materials may have contributed to the rapid spread of the fire, leaving many inside with little time to react.
The newly surfaced footage has disturbed viewers worldwide, as it highlights the brief window between the outbreak of the fire and the onset of panic. Emergency officials said many victims were overcome by smoke before they could escape.
Deadly New Year’s Eve fire
Swiss authorities have confirmed that dozens of people lost their lives in the fire, while many others suffered severe burns and smoke inhalation injuries. Victims were rushed to hospitals across the region, with several remaining in critical condition.
Officials have ruled out terrorism and arson, stating that investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause. Early assessments suggest the fire may have been triggered by decorative flames or celebratory items igniting flammable material inside the venue.
A stark warning on crowd safety
The viral video has reignited debate on safety measures in crowded entertainment venues, particularly during major celebrations. Fire experts have stressed the importance of rapid evacuation, clear exits, and strict controls on flammable décor.
As Switzerland continues to mourn one of its worst civilian tragedies in recent years, authorities have urged the public not to share graphic content out of respect for victims and their families.
The footage now stands as a grim reminder of how quickly celebration can turn into disaster — and how vital safety awareness is in crowded public spaces.