Swiss Authorities Probe Safety Failures After Deadly Fire at Crans-Montana Bar
CRANS-MONTANA, Switzerland — Swiss prosecutors are intensifying their investigation into the safety measures of a popular nightlife venue after a devastating fire broke out during a New Year’s Eve celebration, killing at least 40 people and leaving the nation in shock.
The tragedy occurred at the Le Constellation bar, located in the luxury Alpine resort of Crans-Montana. Authorities believe the blaze was sparked when sparkling “fountain” candles were brought too close to the ceiling during a champagne service, igniting highly flammable materials overhead.
Fire Spread Within Seconds
According to Valais chief prosecutor Beatrice Pilloud, preliminary evidence suggests the fire started after the sparklers made contact with the ceiling of the basement dance area.
“What followed was an extremely fast and aggressive fire spread,” Pilloud said, adding that flames engulfed the space within moments.
Witnesses reported seeing bar staff carrying champagne bottles topped with lit sparklers. Investigators are also closely examining a foam-based soundproofing material installed on the ceiling, which may have significantly accelerated the fire’s spread.
Criminal Liability Under Review
Prosecutors confirmed that the investigation will assess:
- Recent renovation work at the venue
- Compliance of fire suppression systems
- Condition and accessibility of emergency exits
- The number of people inside the bar at the time of the fire
Authorities stated that potential criminal charges have not been ruled out and will depend on the findings of the ongoing inquiry.
Identification of Victims Ongoing
Due to the extreme severity of the burns, identifying victims has proven difficult. Police said it may take several days to complete the process.
The Valais prosecutor’s office confirmed that four Swiss victims, aged 16 to 21, have so far been identified and returned to their families. The victims included two males and two females. Officials declined to release further details.
Earlier, authorities confirmed the identity of one victim — Emanuele Galeppini, a teenage Italian international golfer.
Sources close to the investigation indicate that some victims may have been under the age of 16, raising further concerns given that the venue was known to be popular among teenagers and young adults.
National Shock and Public Questions
Local residents described Le Constellation as a well-known gathering place for young people in the resort. The Swiss government acknowledged that many of the victims were likely youths, intensifying public scrutiny over venue safety standards and age oversight.
In Switzerland, beer and wine can legally be consumed from the age of 16, a fact now drawing renewed debate in light of the tragedy.
As the investigation continues, Switzerland faces mounting questions over fire safety enforcement, nightclub regulations, and the use of pyrotechnic effects in enclosed public spaces — issues that may soon prompt nationwide regulatory changes.