Switzerland ski resort New Year tragedy: What really happened

The New Year celebrations at the Le Constellation bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana, in the Valais, sadly turned into one of the country's worst tragedies. Around 40 people were charred to death, and over 100 were injured after a fire broke out in the resort in the early morning. While the causes of the fire are still under investigation, survivors have told the authorities what happened before the tragedy and what they believe led to it. The possibility of a terrorist attack has already been ruled out. Most people at the party were apparently aged between 16 and 26. Crans-Montana, apparently owned by French nationals, was quite popular among tourists and young people from around the world as a fun destination. 

The incident
Apparently, a witness at the party spotted smoke in the resort's basement dance area around 1.30 am and immediately called the police. Meanwhile, within seconds, the fire ripped through the bar. A red alarm to mobilise the fire department was triggered soon. The rescue teams rushed to the spot with firefighters, ambulances and helicopters, but many victims were charred beyond recognition in no time. 

A witness told the media that some ladies and waitresses had sparklers mounted on their champagne bottles, and when they held them close to the ceiling, a sudden fire broke out. Though there are allegations that the staircase connecting the ground floor and the terrace of the establishment was narrow, and that this resulted in increased casualties, authorities say it's too early to term it the cause of the fire. 

Other bars closed out of respect
Though the Christmas and New Year lights and decorations can still be seen in the Valais town, many bars are closed out of respect for the victims. Crans-Montana town has also been a very popular destination for alpine adventures, winter sports, golf, biking, summer skiing and sightseeing.