Goa, Jan. 2 -- A devastating fire at a popular bar in the Swiss Alpine resort of Crans-Montana claimed the lives of around 40 people and left 115 others injured during New Year festivities, Swiss authorities confirmed on Thursday. The blaze broke out inside Le Constellation bar, a well-known hotspot among tourists visiting the luxury ski destination.

Frederic Gisler, police commander for the Wallis canton in southwestern Switzerland, said the majority of the injured were in serious condition. He added that officials are working to identify the victims and notify their families. Swiss President Guy Parmelin called the tragedy "one of the worst" the nation has ever faced.

Authorities stressed that the incident was a fire outbreak and not ...