Investigators are delving into the cause of a devastating fire that swept through a crowded bar in the ski resort of Crans-Montana, resulting in approximately 40 fatalities and over 100 injuries. According to prosecutor Béatrice Pilloud, the fire is believed to have been ignited by fountain sparklers affixed to champagne bottles, which were held too close to the ceiling. During a press conference in Sion, roughly 16 miles (25 km) from the scene, Pilloud stated, “Everything suggests the fire started from the burning candles or ‘Bengal lights’ that had been attached to champagne bottles. These went too close to the ceiling.”
The tragic event unfolded around 1:30 AM on Thursday, engulfing the Le Constellation bar, which was filled with primarily young revelers celebrating the New Year. Mobile phone videos and witness accounts have illustrated a rapid and widespread conflagration, prompting investigators to take immediate action.
As the investigation progresses, officials are analyzing the bar's compliance with safety regulations. Key areas of focus will include the materials used in the bar's renovation, the availability of fire extinguishers, emergency exits, and the bar's operating license. The number of patrons present during the fire is also under scrutiny. Eyewitness reports and images circulating online have raised alarm about the soundproofing foam panels on the basement ceiling, which allegedly ignited as sparklers were raised.
Mathias Reynard, president of the Valais regional government, confirmed that efforts to identify the victims are ongoing, with many severely burned individuals complicating the process. Officials have stated that it could take several days to definitively identify the deceased. The identification is being conducted through dental records, DNA samples, and clothing descriptions. Tragically, Emanuele Galeppini, a 16-year-old international golfer from Italy, was among the first victims to be named.
Pope Leo has expressed his “compassion and solicitude,” praying for the deceased and their families. Meanwhile, Valais police chief Frédéric Gisler reported that 119 individuals were injured, with 113 already identified, including citizens from Switzerland, France, Italy, Serbia, and several other countries. The director of the regional hospital in Sion, Eric Bonvin, indicated that many injuries sustained will require long-term treatment.
In light of the tragedy, the EU has reached out to Swiss authorities for medical assistance, while French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed that some injured victims are receiving care in French hospitals. A ceremony to honor the victims is scheduled for January 9 in Crans-Montana, allowing the tight-knit community to reflect on this catastrophe.
Health and safety official Stéphane Ganzer remarked on the critical condition of many of the injured, noting that severe burns pose a significant risk of death. As the investigation continues, no criminal liability has yet been established, though if grounds for negligence are found, further legal action may be pursued against the bar's owners, Jacques and Jessica Moretti.
Witnesses have reported that staff at the bar had regularly showcased sparklers attached to champagne bottles, a practice that may have contributed to the disaster. Eyewitness accounts describe a scene of celebration quickly turning into chaos, with survivors recalling how the fire spread rapidly. The community of Crans-Montana, mourning the loss of many young lives, has been left in shock, with floral tributes and candles appearing at the site.
Swiss President Guy Parmelin has declared five days of mourning, labeling the incident as one of the most traumatic events in the nation’s history. UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has also extended condolences, stating that the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is prepared to assist any British nationals affected by this tragic incident.
The Crans-Montana fire serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety regulations and fire precautions in public venues, a conversation that will undoubtedly continue as the investigation unfolds.