Overview
- The explosion at Le Constellation around 1:30am ignited a major fire during New Year celebrations with more than 100 people inside.
- Valais authorities said several dozen people are presumed dead and around 100 injured, though final numbers have not been confirmed.
- Police classified the event as a fire, not a terrorist attack, and launched a criminal and forensic investigation that will take time to identify victims.
- Pyrotechnics used during a concert are being scrutinized as a possible cause, but investigators have not determined the origin.
- A large-scale rescue moved severely burned patients by helicopter to overwhelmed regional hospitals, as the area remains sealed under a no-fly zone with a reception center and helpline for families.