‘People were burning’: Witnesses recount horror of New Year’s Eve fire at Swiss ski resort

Witnesses described scenes of chaos and panic after a deadly fire tore through a crowded bar during a New Year’s Eve party at Le Constellation in Crans-Montana, killing at least 47 people and injuring more than 115 others. Survivors said smoke quickly filled the venue, with no clear emergency exits as people pushed toward a small doorway to escape. Several witnesses recounted a “nightmare” scene of screaming crowds, falling bodies and flames, while Swiss President Guy Parmelin called the tragedy one of the worst to hit the country. Authorities say the fire appears to have been an accident, though an investigation remains ongoing.