A catastrophic fire that erupted at a popular Swiss ski resort bar during New Year’s celebrations has been preliminarily attributed to sparklers placed on champagne bottles that were positioned dangerously close to the ceiling, according to official investigations. The devastating incident at Le Constellation nightclub in Crans-Montana resulted in 40 fatalities and left 119 injured, many in critical condition with severe burns.
Valais Attorney General Beatrice Pilloud disclosed at a Friday press conference that the rapidly spreading blaze appears to have originated from sparkling candles attached to champagne bottles that were elevated too close to the ceiling materials. The investigation will comprehensively examine multiple factors including the establishment’s compliance with building regulations, fire safety protocols, ceiling materials (particularly foam installation), and whether the venue exceeded its 300-person capacity during the celebrations.
Authorities are currently prioritizing the formal identification process for the victims, with police commander Frédéric Gisler confirming that 113 injured individuals have been identified thus far. The casualties include 71 Swiss citizens, 14 French nationals, 11 Italians, and four Serbians among others. Notably, 19-year-old French footballer Tahirys Dos Santos was severely burned and has been airlifted to Germany for specialized treatment.
Mathias Reynard, president of the Valais region, announced that approximately 50 injured individuals are being transferred to specialized burn centers across Europe. A national mourning ceremony is scheduled for January 9th in Crans-Montana to honor the victims. The two French managers of the establishment have been interviewed as part of the ongoing investigation, which will determine whether criminal prosecutions are warranted.
Eyewitness Lea Zehnder, who was celebrating at a nearby venue, described hearing screams from the nightclub and witnessing victims who “couldn’t walk or talk.” The community has established makeshift memorials with flowers and candles near the police-cordoned site, while a conference center outside town provides support to families of the missing.