ISTANBUL

An explosion followed by a fire tore through a bar in the Swiss ski resort town of Crans-Montana on New Year’s Eve, killing at least two people and leaving dozens injured, several of them seriously, local media reported, citing police.

Swiss outlet Blick reported the police said the blast occurred at the Le Constellation bar shortly after midnight during New Year’s Eve celebrations. The cause of the explosion has not yet been determined, the outlet added.

Valais cantonal police spokesperson Gaetan Lathion confirmed the incident, saying the exact number of fatalities and injuries remains unclear. However, he said: “More than two people have lost their lives.”

The fire broke out at around 1.30 am local time (0030GMT) in the two-story establishment, which was hosting more than 100 people at the time of the incident.

Cantonal and municipal police, firefighters and emergency medical teams were deployed to the scene, with several helicopters assisting in rescue operations. Emergency response efforts are still ongoing.

Authorities have set up a helpline for families seeking information about people who were in the Valais resort overnight, Lathion said.

A press conference is scheduled for Thursday at 10 am (0900GMT), when authorities are expected to provide further details.

Meanwhile, unverified reports circulating on social media suggest the fire may have been triggered by pyrotechnic devices used during a concert at the venue. Police have not confirmed these claims.