Authorities in Switzerland have launched a major investigation after a fire ended the lives of at least 40 people during a New Year’s Eve celebration at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana.
The blaze broke out shortly after 1:30 am inside the underground venue, which was filled with hundreds of New Year’s guests, as well as the friends of an unidentified individual who was celebrating their birthday.
According to Swiss police about 100 people are injured, many in critical condition. Forensic teams are still working to identify victims and notify families as multiple hospitals across the country report significant strain on emergency and burn units.