A devastating New Year’s Eve fire at Le Constellation bar in the Swiss alpine resort of Crans-Montana has claimed at least 40 lives, triggering intense scrutiny of safety protocols and construction materials. Criminal investigators have identified sparkling champagne candles held dangerously close to the ceiling as the probable ignition source, with highly flammable acoustic foam accelerating the rapid spread of flames throughout the basement venue.
Valais canton chief prosecutor Beatrice Pilloud confirmed preliminary findings indicate the sparklers’ proximity to ceiling materials initiated an exceptionally fast-moving blaze that overwhelmed patrons. The foam soundproofing installation, intended for noise reduction, potentially violated fire safety standards and contributed to the tragedy’s severity.
Forensic teams face prolonged identification processes due to the extreme condition of victims, with only Italian golfer Emanuele Galeppini officially identified thus far. Evidence suggests numerous victims were minors, exploiting Switzerland’s legal drinking age of 16 for beer and wine.
Contradictions emerge regarding compliance records as owner Jacques Moretti claims three successful inspections over the past decade, while Valais security director Stephane Ganzer acknowledges uncertainty about recent annual building inspections. The municipality had previously raised no safety concerns with cantonal authorities.
The community continues mourning with memorial gatherings near the cordoned-off establishment. Survivor accounts reveal the human toll, including Ashley Hauri’s testimony of six former colleagues caught in the blaze, with four currently missing and two hospitalized.
Ongoing criminal investigations will determine potential liability while national authorities reevaluate fire safety regulations for entertainment venues nationwide.