Initial findings indicate that a fire at a Swiss ski resort bar on New Year’s Eve claimed the lives of at least 40 individuals and left many others injured. According to local authorities, the fire likely originated from “fountain candles” attached to champagne bottles that were brought too close to the ceiling, causing a rapid and extensive blaze to erupt. The candles in question are commonly sold in retail stores for celebratory purposes.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the compliance of a foam layer in the ceiling with safety regulations and the exact circumstances leading to the tragic incident. No criminal responsibility has been established as of now. Efforts are also underway to identify the deceased, with dental and DNA samples being utilized for this purpose.
The injured partygoers, numbering 119 with 113 identified, hail from various nationalities, including Swiss, French, Italian, Serbian, Bosnian, Luxembourgish, Belgian, Portuguese, and Polish. Families of missing individuals are anxiously awaiting news, while embassies work to ascertain the status of their citizens involved in the catastrophe.
The investigation is scrutinizing the bar’s infrastructure, previous renovations, fire safety measures, and the crowd present during the fire outbreak. Authorities are examining the acoustic-dampening foam in the basement ceiling to determine its compliance with regulations and its impact on the fire’s rapid spread. The town had reportedly not flagged any concerns regarding safety to the canton.
Residents of Crans-Montana, a popular destination for skiing and golfing, expressed shock at the tragedy, with many mourning the loss of friends and acquaintances. France has confirmed the death of one of its nationals in the incident. A somber atmosphere enveloped the town as people paid their respects to the victims, and Switzerland declared a period of national mourning with flags flown at half-mast.
Survivors recounted harrowing experiences, highlighting the swift progression of the flames. Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes, with some managing miraculous escapes. The emotional toll on the community was palpable as individuals reflected on how easily they could have been in the bar during the tragic event.