Investigators probing the devastating fire at a crowded bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana believe fountain sparklers mounted on champagne bottles and held too close to the ceiling sparked the inferno that killed around 40 people and injured more than 100.
Prosecutor Béatrice Pilloud said on Friday that all evidence points to burning “Bengal lights” attached to champagne bottles as the likely cause. “These went too close to the ceiling,” she said, adding that mobile phone footage and witness accounts showed the fire spread with alarming speed.
Rapid spread in packed New Year venue
The blaze broke out around 1.30 am on Thursday at Le Constellation bar, which was packed with mostly young people celebrating the New Year. Investigators are now examining whether the venue complied with fire safety norms, including ceiling materials, number of exits, fire extinguishers and occupancy limits.
Images circulating online appear to show foam soundproofing panels on the ceiling catching fire moments after sparklers were raised. Fire experts warned that such materials can ignite rapidly if not properly fireproofed.
Identification of victims ongoing
Valais regional president Mathias Reynard said authorities were working urgently to identify victims, many of whom suffered severe burns. Dental records, DNA samples and clothing descriptions are being used, a process officials said could take several days.
Among the victims identified so far is Emanuele Galeppini, a 16-year-old Italian international golfer, whose death was confirmed by the Italian Golf Federation.
International response and mourning
Valais police chief Frédéric Gisler said 119 people were injured, with victims from multiple countries including Switzerland, France, Italy and others. Several injured are being treated in hospitals across Switzerland, France, Germany and Poland.
Pope Leo expressed his condolences, praying for the victims and their families. Swiss President Guy Parmelin announced five days of national mourning, calling it one of the most traumatic events in the country’s history.
A remembrance ceremony is planned in Crans-Montana on January 9 as investigations continue.