Swiss authorities believe the fire at a ski resort bar was caused by a sparkler attached to a champagne bottle used during New Year's celebrations, which rapidly spread, resulting in at least 40 deaths and over 119 injuries, many critically wounded.
On 2 Jan 2025 GMT+7, Swiss officials revealed updates on the investigation into the fire at the "Le Constellation" bar in the Crans-Montana ski resort in the Alps in the country's southwest, which occurred on New Year's Eve. They believe the cause began with a sparkler or Bengal lights attached to a champagne bottle that was raised too close to the bar ceiling.
Beatrice Pilloud, public prosecutor of the Valais canton, stated that all evidence points to the fire starting from the sparkler on the champagne bottle, which quickly and extensively spread inside the building, causing severe losses in a short time.
Matthias Renard, president of the Valais government, announced that the tragedy has claimed 40 lives, describing the figure as deeply distressing. He expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and emphasized that many injured victims are still fighting for their lives, with several in critical condition.
Frederic Gissler, commander of the Valais police, disclosed that of the 119 injured, 113 identities have been confirmed, with six still under process. Among those confirmed injured are 71 Swiss, 14 French, 11 Italian, 4 Serbian, and others from countries including Bosnia, Belgium, Luxembourg, Poland, and Portugal.
The identities of all 40 deceased remain under urgent verification, with authorities collaborating with forensic experts from multiple cantons nationwide. The ongoing investigation will focus on the bar's interior renovations, materials used, licensing, safety measures, fire suppression systems, escape routes, authorized capacity, and the number of people present on the night of the fire.
Authorities have not ruled out criminal charges if responsibility is found, potentially including negligent arson, negligent homicide, and negligent injury.
Source: BBC / AP