A devastating fire erupted at a bar in Crans-Montana during New Year celebrations, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. The incident began around 1:30 AM with an explosion in the basement of the bar, which usually operates until 2:00 AM and can host up to 400 people. The Valais police confirmed several deaths and injuries, describing the event as a 'major catastrophe,' comparable in scale to the 2012 bus accident in Sierre that claimed 28 lives. Emergency services, including helicopters from Air-Glaciers and numerous ambulances, responded rapidly to the scene. A help-line (0848 112 117) has been established for affected families, and a press conference is scheduled for 10:00 AM. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with one stating, 'The entire ceiling was on fire,' and recounting the panic experienced during the tragic event.