A memorial service was held Sunday for the victims of a New Year's Eve fire at Le Constellation bar in Switzerland, as authorities continue a criminal investigation into the incident. The blaze resulted in over 20 fatalities, with additional individuals hospitalized, and has led to the suspicion of the bar owners for negligent killing, arson, and bodily harm. The investigation is focusing on safety standards, potential overcrowding, and emergency exit accessibility, following video evidence suggesting the fire started from champagne sparklers igniting ceiling foam.
Memorial Service and Community Response
On Sunday, a special Mass took place at St Christopher's Church to honor the victims of the fire that occurred at Le Constellation bar on New Year's Eve. Hundreds of individuals gathered, some outside in the street, to remember those who died and those hospitalized with injuries. During the event, some attendees required medical assistance.
Following the Mass, a silent procession, which included some survivors, moved from the church towards the site of the bar. The area remains cordoned off, and a memorial comprising flowers, soft toys, and handwritten notes has been established in front of it. Firefighters and rescue personnel, some of whom were present at the memorial, were acknowledged for their efforts, with the local fire commander, David Vocat, providing a statement regarding the event's impact on his team.
Victim Identification and Repatriation
Authorities have confirmed the identification of over 20 deceased individuals, whose remains are in the process of being repatriated to their families. The identification process has been challenging due to the severity of the burns sustained, necessitating forensic analysis methods such as DNA samples and dental records. Laetitia Brodard confirmed that her son, Arthur, was among the fatalities. Some injured individuals remain unconscious and unidentified in hospitals.
The bar was frequented by numerous young people at the time of the incident; the legal drinking age in Switzerland is 16.
Ongoing Criminal Investigation
A criminal investigation has been initiated into the incident. The bar owners, identified as a French couple, are currently under suspicion for negligent killing, arson, and causing bodily harm.
Investigators are examining video footage recorded from inside Le Constellation. This footage reportedly shows bar staff delivering champagne bottles equipped with sparklers. Sparks from these devices appear to have ignited soundproofing foam on the ceiling, leading to a rapid spread of flames throughout the establishment.
Focus of Inquiries and Witness Accounts
The investigation is evaluating several key areas: compliance with safety standards for the construction materials used, the potential for overcrowding, the accessibility of emergency exits, particularly from the basement area, and the availability of fire extinguishers.
Video evidence also reportedly shows individuals attempting to extinguish the initial flames with clothing. Initial observations and accounts from individuals present indicated that some patrons did not immediately recognize the danger, with some reportedly continuing to dance and record the event instead of immediately evacuating. Witnesses also recounted observing individuals evacuating the burning establishment.