Police have stated that the cause of the explosion remains under investigation
Swiss police report that a popular nightlife venue in the Crans-Montana ski resort was struck by an explosion shortly after the New Year began, killing several people and leaving others injured.
Emergency services were dispatched shortly after midnight in response to reports of a powerful blast and fire at or near a bar and lounge frequented by vacationers.
Eyewitness footage circulating on social media shows flames engulfing part of the venue and thick smoke rising into the night sky.
“An explosion of unknown origin has occurred,” local police spokesman Gaetan Lathion told AFP.
Police said they have not released exact figures as families are still being notified, but confirmed several fatalities and many injuries—some of which are serious.
Crans-Montana, located in the canton of Valais in southwestern Switzerland, is one of the country’s most well-known alpine resorts. Authorities have cordoned off the affected area while forensic teams examine the site.