After a tragic fire at a Swiss bar on New Year’s Eve claimed the lives of at least 40 people, scrutiny has heightened on the safety measures in place. Investigators revealed that the fire likely started when sparkling candles were brought too close to the ceiling at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana. Witnesses observed staff carrying fountain candles on champagne bottles, raising concerns about the foam material used for soundproofing in the basement where party-goers were dancing.
Chief prosecutor Beatrice Pilloud stated that initial findings suggest the sparklers caused the fire, leading to a rapid and widespread blaze. Further inquiries will determine if anyone will be held criminally responsible for the incident. Authorities will focus on inspecting recent renovations at the bar, fire suppression systems, evacuation routes, and the occupancy at the time of the fire.
Despite prompt police response, the intensity of the fire made it challenging to identify the victims quickly. So far, only one victim, teenage golfer Emanuele Galeppini, has been identified. Some victims could be minors, as the bar was popular among young people, and reports suggest that many of the deceased were youths.
The bar’s owner, Jacques Moretti, claimed that the establishment had undergone multiple inspections over the years and complied with regulations. The investigation will also assess whether the bar had undergone its annual safety checks. The tragic incident is expected to have significant implications for bar safety regulations in Valais and across Switzerland.
Residents continue to mourn the victims, leaving flowers and tributes near the bar. One resident, Ashley Hauri, narrowly avoided being at the bar during the fire and expressed shock and concern for her missing friends who were inside. The community remains shaken by the devastating event as investigations into the cause and consequences of the fire progress.