New Year's Eve across Europe leaves dozens dead in fires, fireworks accidents

New Year's Eve celebrations across Europe were marred by tragedy as dozens of people were killed and injured in a series of incidents involving fires, fireworks accidents, and related violence. The deadliest event occurred in Switzerland, where a fire at a bar resulted in a significant loss of life.

Swiss Bar Fire and Other Fatal Incidents

A devastating fire at the Constellation bar in the Swiss resort town of Crans-Montana killed approximately 40 people and injured 115, many severely. Authorities are investigating the cause with international assistance. In Poland, separate house fires in Swinna Poreba and Sarny Wielkie claimed two lives, while a hotel attic fire led to an evacuation. Polish police reported over 15,600 incidents nationwide, with hundreds detained.

Fireworks Accidents and Attacks

In the Netherlands, fireworks accidents killed two individuals, including a teenager in Nijmegen. Amsterdam's historic Vondelkerk Church suffered a major fire, causing part of its structure to collapse. Germany reported two fireworks-related deaths in Bielefeld and dozens injured; police noted attacks using fireworks in cities like Berlin, leading to over 400 arrests. A fire in Erfurt, likely sparked by a firework, damaged historic buildings. Belgium saw three police officers injured in Brussels, with public transport vehicles damaged, and 28 people arrested in Ghent for fireworks-related offenses.