Fatal explosion in a bar in Crans-Montana: at least 40 victims

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Several people have died and others have been injured following an explosion at a bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana. The explosion occurred at 01.30 local time in Constellation Barthe police told the Bbc.

Based on information provided by the Valais Cantonal Policethere would be around 40 dead and 100 injured due to the fire that occurred in the Constellation bar last night in Crans-Montana. The victims are not identifiable due to the serious burns they suffered. The Farnesina explains this in a note.

A collection point has been set up for family members at the conference centre, Le Regent in Crans-Montana. A help line has been set up by the cantonal police who answer the number +41848112117 who can also be contacted from Italy.

Police also confirmed that the incident is not being treated as a terrorist attack. The explosion may have been caused by pyrotechnic devices, writes the Brick newspaper. Investigations are underway to ascertain the actual cause of the explosion, which occurred in the basement of the bar around 1.30 am.

Police, firefighters and helicopters are on site and the area is completely cordoned off, just as an overflight ban has been imposed over Crans-Montana. At the time of the explosion there were over 100 people in the restaurant: in fact, there is talk of around one hundred injured: the capacity is 400 people.