Explosion In Switzerland Ski Resort Leaves 40 Dead And 100 Injured, Reports

A powerful explosion hit the upscale Swiss ski resort town of Crans-Montana, killing several people and triggering emergency response operations.

Switzerland: A New Year celebration in Switzerland’s elite ski destination of Crans-Montana turned tragic after a late-night explosion at a crowded bar left 40 people dead and approx 100 injured, Regional daily Le Nouvelliste reported on Thursday. 

The blast struck shortly after midnight at Le Constellation, a popular nightlife spot in the Alpine town, just as revellers were marking the arrival of the New Year. Panic broke out in the area as emergency services rushed to the scene, reportedly.

According to NDTV reports, Swiss police said the cause of the explosion has not yet been identified. “Multiple injuries and fatalities have been reported,” a spokesperson for the Wallis canton police said, adding that rescue and security operations were still in progress.

Images and videos circulating online, which have not been independently verified, showed flames and heavy smoke billowing from the bar as firefighters worked to bring the situation under control.

Crans-Montana, located in the Swiss Alps around two hours from Bern, is a well known luxury ski resort with extensive slopes spanning nearly 87 miles. The town attracts large numbers of international tourists, particularly during the winter season, and is set to host a major FIS World Cup speed skiing event later this month.