Fire in Swiss Alps Leaves Dozens of New Year’s Revelers Dead

Blaze at a ski‑resort bar kills around 40 people and injures more than 100 on New Year’s Eve

A devastating fire erupted inside a popular bar at a ski resort in the Swiss Alps during the New Year’s celebrations, claiming the lives of approximately 40 people and wounding 115 others. The majority of the victims were young adults who had gathered to welcome 2024.

According to local authorities, the blaze broke out shortly after midnight, when the venue was packed with revelers. “The fire spread rapidly through the wooden interior, trapping many inside,” said a spokesperson for the cantonal police. Emergency services arrived within minutes, but the intensity of the flames made rescue efforts extremely difficult.

Rescue teams, including firefighters, paramedics, and mountain rescue units, worked through the night to extract survivors from the smoke‑filled building. More than 100 people were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment of burns, smoke inhalation, and injuries sustained while fleeing the inferno.

The incident has prompted an immediate investigation into the cause of the fire. Preliminary reports suggest that a malfunctioning heating system may have ignited flammable decorations, but officials have not ruled out other possibilities. “We are conducting a thorough forensic analysis to determine exactly what went wrong,” the chief investigator added.

Swiss Prime Minister Alain Berset expressed his condolences, stating, “Our thoughts are with the families of the victims and with all those affected by this tragedy. The nation stands in solidarity with the Alpine community during this painful time.”

Local hospitals are still receiving patients, and authorities have set up a crisis center to provide psychological support for survivors and families. The ski resort remains closed while safety inspections are carried out, and officials have urged the public to avoid the area until the investigation is complete.