A New Year’s Eve celebration turned into a scene of devastation late Tuesday night after a powerful explosion tore through a crowded bar in the upscale Swiss ski resort town of Crans-Montana, leaving dozens feared dead and scores injured.

The blast struck shortly after midnight at a popular venue where hundreds of people had gathered to ring in the new year. Emergency services rushed to the scene as flames engulfed part of the building and debris scattered across the surrounding area. Authorities said at least 40 people are feared dead, while around 100 others sustained injuries ranging from minor to critical, though officials cautioned that casualty figures remain provisional as search and rescue operations continue.

Swiss police sealed off the area and deployed forensic teams, firefighters, and medical units throughout the night. Several injured victims were airlifted to hospitals in nearby cantons due to the severity of their wounds, while others were treated at local medical facilities. Hospitals in the region were placed on emergency footing to handle the influx of casualties.

In an updated statement on Thursday morning, local authorities said the fire had been fully extinguished and structural engineers were assessing the stability of the damaged building. Search teams, assisted by sniffer dogs, continued to comb through the wreckage to ensure no one remained trapped inside.

The cause of the explosion has not yet been determined. Investigators said all possibilities remain under consideration, including a gas leak or other technical malfunction, but stressed that it is too early to draw conclusions. Officials have urged the public to refrain from speculation as the investigation progresses.

Crans-Montana, known internationally for its luxury resorts and winter tourism, was hosting large crowds over the holiday period. Local officials expressed condolences to the victims and their families, describing the incident as one of the deadliest tragedies to strike the resort in recent years.

Swiss federal authorities have also been briefed on the incident, and additional support has been dispatched to assist local emergency services. Further updates are expected as investigators work to establish the cause of the blast and confirm the final number of casualties. (ILKHA)