Sparklers and flammable ceiling material linked to fast-spreading Swiss ski-resort blaze

A fast-moving blaze tore through Le Constellation bar in the Crans-Montana ski resort in the early hours of Thursday, killing at least 40 people and injuring 119, Swiss officials said. The fire began at roughly 1.30am local time as guests celebrated the start of 2026. Witnesses described people surging up a staircase, smashing windows and fleeing as smoke and flames spread within seconds.

Valais attorney general Beatrice Pilloud said investigators believe sparkler candles placed on top of champagne bottles were taken too close to the ceiling and triggered a rapid flashover that made the fire explode through the venue. Authorities are also examining whether a sound‑deadening foam on the ceiling accelerated the blaze.

Retired London Fire Brigade commander Steve Dudeney told Sky News such polyurethane foam is highly flammable and can shed flaming droplets that spread fire quickly. Swiss officials described the incident using terms for sudden, violent fire development, including "flashover" and the related risk of backdraught, where combustible gases ignite or oxygen reintroduction causes an explosion.

Rescue teams mobilised 13 helicopters, 42 ambulances, 150 paramedics and 70 firefighters. Officials said the severity of burns has made identification difficult and that dental and DNA records are being used. Of the 119 injured, 113 have been identified: 71 Swiss, 14 French, 11 Italian, four Serbian, and one each from Bosnia, Belgium and Portugal.

Key Topics

World, United States, Switzerland, Fire, Crans-montana, Investigation, Safety