A bar fire that occurred during New Year's celebrations in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, resulted in approximately 40 fatalities and between 116 and 119 injuries. Swiss authorities have identified 24 victims to date, with a criminal investigation initiated against the bar's owners for suspected negligence.
Incident Overview
The fire at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, began around 1:30 a.m. local time during New Year's Eve celebrations. Preliminary investigations suggest sparklers used on bottles, brought into close proximity with the ceiling, are the likely cause. The incident resulted in an estimated 40 fatalities and between 116 and 119 injuries. Le Constellation was known as a venue frequented by a younger demographic.
Victim Identification
Swiss authorities have identified 24 fatalities from the fire, with 16 additional victims recently identified. The identified victims include individuals of Swiss, Italian, Romanian, Turkish, and French nationalities. Nine of the identified victims were under the age of 18, including a 14-year-old Swiss national, two 15-year-olds, two 16-year-olds, a 17-year-old, two 16-year-old Italian nationals, and one 16-year-old with dual nationality. Swiss Confederation President Guy Parmelin noted the youth of many victims.
The identification process has been described as protracted due to the nature of the injuries sustained. Authorities have stated that no further details regarding the identified victims would be released out of respect for their families, and their bodies have been returned.
In a related event, a group of skiers formed a heart shape on the slopes of Crans-Montana in remembrance of those affected by the fire.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
Swiss prosecutors have initiated a criminal investigation into the management of Le Constellation bar. The bar owners, Jacques and Jessica Moretti, are subjects of the investigation. Prosecutors for the Valais region suspect them of manslaughter by negligence, bodily harm by negligence, and arson by negligence.
Investigators are examining whether acoustic foam on the venue's ceiling contributed to the incident and whether it complied with safety regulations. Jacques Moretti, identified as a French co-owner of the bar, previously stated that the establishment had undergone three inspections over a decade and that all operations adhered to regulations.
Regulatory Context
According to the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH), Swiss federal law permits the sale of beer and wine to individuals aged 16 and above, and spirits to those aged 18 and above. Valais cantonal law specifies that individuals under 16 may access premises serving alcohol after 10 p.m. if accompanied by a legal guardian or an authorized adult. The legal drinking age in Crans-Montana is 16.