A blast tore through a bar in Crans-Montana, a ski resort in Switzerland, leaving several dead and injured, according to the police. Police spokesman aëtan Lathon told reporters that the explosion was of “unknown origin”.
As per reports, the incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. at a bar called Le Constellation, which can accommodate 400 people. Popular with tourists, the bar was hosting a New Year's Eve party.
Images published by Swiss media show a building engulfed in flames and emergency services nearby. "The operation is still underway," a spokesperson added.
Though the police said the blast was of “unknown origin”, Swiss news outlet Blick reported that the blast and subsequent fire may have been caused by pyrotechnics during a concert. It added that the incident occurred while guests were celebrating the new year and that the fire is now under control.
The bar where the explosion took place is located in the basement of the building.
(Tobe updated)
