The Swiss nation will observe a solemn day of mourning on Friday to commemorate the 40 individuals who perished in a devastating fire at the Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana during New Year’s celebrations. The memorial service forms the centerpiece of a national tribute, with church bells scheduled to resonate across the country for five minutes at 2 p.m. local time, followed by a minute of collective silence.
Official investigations into the January 1st catastrophe, which also left 116 people injured—many with severe burns—point to a tragic ignition source. Preliminary findings suggest that sparkling candles adorning Champagne bottles, lit during the festivities, came into contact with the ceiling’s soundproofing material, triggering the rapid blaze. The inquiry is now rigorously examining whether this acoustic paneling met existing safety regulations and if the use of such pyrotechnic devices was legally permitted within the establishment.
A critical aspect of the investigation reveals that the venue had not undergone a mandatory fire safety inspection since 2019. The intensity of the fire complicated victim identification procedures, necessitating the use of DNA samples provided by grieving families. Police reports indicate a significant number of the deceased were young adults, ranging from their late teens to mid-twenties.
In response to the incident, Valais regional prosecutors have initiated a criminal investigation targeting the bar’s management. The proprietors now face serious allegations, including involuntary homicide, involuntary bodily harm, and negligently causing a fire, as authorities seek to determine the full extent of operational liabilities.