At a Glance
- Swiss prosecutors launch probe into bar managers after 40 died in Crans-Montana fire.
- Fire likely started by sparkling candles on champagne bottles.
- 119 injured, many with severe burns, identification still underway.
- Why it matters: Families await answers, authorities investigate safety lapses.
A devastating fire at the Le Constellation bar in the Alpine resort of Crans-Montana has prompted a criminal investigation into the bar’s managers. The blaze, which erupted around 1:30 a.m. on New Year’s Eve, killed 40 people and left 119 injured, many with severe burns.
Investigation Details
Beatrice Pilloud, Valais region’s chief prosecutor, said the investigation was opened on Friday night and would help ‘explore all the leads.’
The managers are suspected of involuntary homicide, bodily harm and causing the fire.
The inquiry will examine safety measures, including fire extinguishers and escape routes.
Beat Jans, Swiss Justice Minister, said:
> ‘We know that the world needs an answer on this question.’
Fire Causes and Safety Concerns
Investigators believe sparkling candles atop Champagne bottles ignited the fire when they came too close to the ceiling.
They will review whether the ceiling’s sound-dampening material complied with regulations and whether the candles were permitted.
Other safety issues under review include fire extinguishers and escape routes.
Stéphane Ganzer said:
> ‘Such a huge accident with a fire in Switzerland means that something didn’t work – maybe the material, maybe the organization on the spot.’
> ‘Something didn’t work and someone made a mistake, I am sure of that.’
Impact on Victims and Families
Families have struggled with the difficulty of identifying victims, as severe burns have destroyed wallets and documents.
Laetitia Brodard said:
> ‘I’m looking everywhere. The body of my son is somewhere.’
> ‘I want to know where my child is and be by his side, wherever that may be.’
| Category | Approximate Number |
|---|---|
| Swiss nationals | >70 |
| France | >10 |
| Italy | >10 |
| Others (Serbia, Bosnia, Luxembourg, Belgium, Portugal, Poland) | Several |
Elvira Venturella noted:
> ‘It’s a wait that destroys people’s stability.’
Gian Lorenzo Cornado said:
> ‘A lot of stress, but it was right for authorities to share information only when it is accurate and 100% sure.’
Key Takeaways
- Investigation targets bar managers for involuntary homicide and fire causation.
- Sparkling candles on Champagne bottles likely sparked the blaze.
- 40 dead, 119 injured, identification still pending.
The investigation continues as authorities seek answers for families and to assess safety failures at the venue.
