At least 47 people are dead and about 112 injured, many in critical condition, following a fire at the Crans-Montana ski resort in the Swiss Alps, this according to Italian newspaper la Repubblica. The fire broke out during New Year's Eve celebrations at Le Constellation, a club and bar in the renowned ski resort.
Investigators are working to identify the victims, who are believed to be mostly young or minors, as Le Constellation was one of the few clubs that allowed underage entry. The club, which had a capacity of 400 people, was in the middle of New Year's celebrations when, according to witnesses, a sparkler attached to an alcoholic beverage ignited the ceiling and the fire quickly spread. Panic ensued, and people rushed toward the only exit of the underground enclosed venue: a stairwell.
The number of injured has overwhelmed local hospitals, and many have been transferred to neighboring countries for treatment.
Unfortunately, the fire at Le Constellation is just one of many nightclub disasters. Indeed, nightclub tragedies, though tragic, are not uncommon. One of the earliest recorded incidents dates back to 1929.
So, what are some of history’s most notorious dancefloor disasters? Click through the following gallery for a sobering reminder.