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Swiss authorities launch criminal probe into bar fire that killed 40
Prosecutors in Switzerland have placed the French managers of a nightclub under criminal investigation following a devastating fire on New Year's Eve that left 40 people dead and 119 injured in the ski resort of Crans-Montana.
Victims identified as families await news of missing loved ones
Police confirmed the first four victims identified were Swiss nationals: two women, aged 21 and 16, and two men, aged 18 and 16. Their bodies have been returned to their families, but officials have not released further details, including names.
Of the 119 injured, 113 have been identified so far, according to authorities. The victims include 71 Swiss, 14 French, and 11 Italian citizens. Many of those killed or missing are teenagers, reflecting the bar's popularity among younger visitors in the resort town, where the legal drinking age is 16.
A teenage golfer from Italy was reported as the first named victim, though Swiss and Italian officials have not yet confirmed his death.
Preliminary findings point to sparklers as likely cause
Investigators believe the fire was sparked by sparklers on champagne bottles being carried too close to the ceiling, according to preliminary findings. The blaze rapidly engulfed Le Constellation, a well-known venue in the alpine town.
Managers face charges of negligent homicide and arson
The Valais cantonal prosecutors' office announced on Saturday that the French managers of the bar are suspected of homicide by negligence, causing bodily harm by negligence, and arson by negligence. The statement did not provide further details about the managers or their current status.
Swiss president calls tragedy one of the country's worst
Swiss President Guy Parmelin described the incident as "one of the worst tragedies" in the nation's recent history. Tributes have poured in outside the bar, where police barriers are now surrounded by flowers, stuffed toys, and messages of condolence.
Identification process hampered by severity of burns
Families of the victims have been directed to a conference center near Crans-Montana, where Italian Civil Protection teams and Italy's ambassador to Switzerland, Gian Lorenzo Cornado, are assisting. Ambassador Cornado said the identification process is ongoing and expected to conclude by Sunday afternoon.
"The slow pace is due to the severity of the burns suffered by many victims," he explained.
Helpline established for concerned families
A dedicated helpline has been set up for families seeking information: +41 848 112 117. Additional support can be accessed via an online link provided by authorities.
