Switzerland to pay $56,000 to victims and families of Crans-Montana fire

The Swiss Federal Council announced it will provide a one-time compensation of 50,000 Swiss francs (about $56,000) to seriously injured survivors and the families of those killed in a fire at a bar on the Crans-Montana ski resort.

The so-called “solidarity contribution” is intended to deliver rapid financial assistance and serve as a gesture of sympathy, according to the government statement.

To ensure timely support, a new federal law will be reviewed by parliament during the spring session and passed urgently. Authorities also plan to organise a roundtable to help victims develop out-of-court settlements.

The fire broke out at the Le Constellation bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana early on January 1, 2026, during New Year’s Eve celebrations, killing dozens and injuring more than 100 as revellers fled the rapidly spreading blaze.

On January 2, police confirmed 40 fatalities and reported 119 people injured in the incident.

According to authorities, the blaze was likely accidental, triggered when sparkling candles on Champagne bottles ignited the ceiling, and a criminal investigation has been launched into possible fire safety violations at the venue.

Local hospitals were quickly overwhelmed, as many victims suffered severe burns and smoke inhalation, leading to the transfer of critically injured patients to specialised burn units in other European cities.

By Jeyhun Aghazada