Witnesses describe people trampled as fire swept Crans-Montana bar

A witness told Sky News he saw patrons walking over others as they tried to escape a fire in the packed Le Constellation bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana. Police have confirmed about 40 people were killed and 115 others injured, the majority seriously with severe burns.

The fire broke out at about 1.30am local time as New Year celebrations began. Samuel Rapp, who was nearby, described the scene as "horrible" after being told of an "explosion". He said the entrance was crowded, people were screaming, and many were on the floor as others climbed over them to flee.

Rapp said he saw someone place a jacket over a victim's face and many people whose hair had been burned off; some were without clothes. He said the venue attracts an international crowd, including people from England, the Netherlands and around Switzerland, and added many of those inside were between 16 and 18.

Sky News' Home Editor said people at the scene were traumatised and gathering by the police cordon. Leon Christe, who helped administer first aid, called the scene chaotic and said many young people had burned clothes. A 16-year-old survivor, Axel Clavier, told the Associated Press there was "total chaos".

Key Topics

World, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Crans-montana, Bar Fire, Casualties, Teenagers