CTV National News for Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026: Devastating fire kills 40 at Swiss bar

New details are being released about the likely cause of the deadly Swiss ski resort fire; a look at Canada's immigration plan; and the push to restore in-person employment after COVID-19 pandemic.

Swiss officials say 40 people are confirmed dead, with an additional 115 injured as a fire broke out in a packed bar; a water-main break in Calgary has left some streets flooded, with police advising residents to conserve water as much as possible; the legislation promised by PM Carney in 2025 aimed at reducing interprovincial trade barriers has officially come into effect, but issues remain; and more.

Andrew Johnson reports on Victoria police rehiring retired officers to help address recruitment challenges and staffing gaps. A Nova Scotia mother shares her family's journey through loss and healing during the holiday season in an effort to help others. Sarah Plowman has the details. RCMP say two armed suspects remain unidentified more than 24 hours after a fatal shooting on Big Island Lake Cree Nation. Alison Bamford reports.

Allison Bamford reports RCMP are searching for two armed suspects after a fatal shooting at Big Island Lake Cree Nation. Katelyn Wilson has more on the search for answers after a Gatineau, Que., couple was found dead in their vacation home in the Dominican Republic. Mexican authorities have seized luxury motorcycles linked to fugitive Ryan Wedding, tightening the international hunt. Judy Trinh reports.

Sarah Plowman has the latest on the hectic weather conditions wreaking havoc from Ontario to Newfoundland and Labrador, as icy conditions impact holiday travel. Andrew Johnson reports on Russia's latest assault on Ukraine, after an alleged drone attack by Ukraine targeting Russian President Vladimir Putin. Long drive-thru lineups at a newly reopened Taco Bell have slowed traffic for days, forcing Mount Pearl to step in with traffic control. Garret Barry reports.

Kamil Karamali says Canada’s multi-billion-dollar economic support as President Zelensky prepares a peace plan ahead of a Trump meeting. Andrew Johnson reports emotional tributes marking 80 years since liberation and honouring Canada’s war heroes. Maria Sarrouh introduces how PEI volunteers track bird species to support long-term conservation research.

Bitter cold, heavy snowfall and freezing rain swept across the country today, disrupting holiday travel and keeping some shoppers home; Despite the harsh weather, some Canadians hit the stores on Boxing Day to find deals to help offset the rising costs of living; Swapping his sleigh for a plane, Santa travelled to remote Manitoba communities to make sure children didn’t miss out on Christmas.

U.S. political analyst Eric Ham weighs in on another release of heavily redacted Epstein records and new FBI findings about a disputed letter; An Ontario judge has granted bail to the lawyer accused of ties to fugitive Ryan Wedding’s international drug trafficking operation; Tensions are escalating between the U.S. and Venezuela over access to oil resources and the seizure of oil tankers. 

Canada has appointed Mark Wiseman as its next ambassador to the United States, a key change as Ottawa prepares for trade talks; Fake AI images are fueling confusion, leaving people unsure what to believe and casting doubt on legitimate photos and real events; Canada’s sovereignty has faced pressure during U.S. President Trump’s second term, leading PM Carney to prioritize military investment; and more.

A new report seeks to address some of the reasons why the NDP faltered in 2025; Canada’s high cost of living has deterred some Canadians from local this holiday season; residents in Atlantic Canada say the increasing food casts are making it harder to feed their families; and more.