A devastating fire erupted at the Le Constellation bar in the Swiss ski resort town of Crans-Montana on January 1, 2026, during New Year's celebrations. The tragic incident resulted in a confirmed death toll of 40 people and left 116 others injured, with many suffering severe burns that overwhelmed local intensive care units, necessitating transfers to hospitals across Switzerland and other European countries. The disaster prompted Chinese President Xi Jinping to extend his profound condolences to Guy Parmelin, the President of the Swiss Confederation, on January 4, 2026. In his message, President Xi expressed deep sympathy to the bereaved families and wished a speedy recovery to the injured, reflecting the international concern over the tragedy. Initial investigations suggest the fire likely originated when lit sparklers, part of champagne bottle celebrations, came into contact with the bar's ceiling, potentially igniting acoustic foam or other materials. Swiss authorities have since launched a criminal investigation into the bar's managers, suspecting involuntary homicide, bodily harm, and causing a fire. The incident, which saw many victims in their teens to mid-20s, led Switzerland to declare January 9, 2026, a national day of mourning. The swift and severe nature of the event has been described as one of the country's worst disasters, with emergency services deploying extensive resources including helicopters and ambulances to manage the crisis. The international community, including Germany, Italy, and Liechtenstein, also offered condolences and assistance in the aftermath of the blaze.