Crans-Montana Bar Blaze Likely Triggered by Champagne Sparklers, Swiss Officials Say
At least 40 killed in New Year’s fire at “Le Constellation” bar investigation launched into possible criminal responsibility
Switzerland, Dec 03 : Sparklers attached to champagne bottles and held too close to the ceiling are believed to have triggered the deadly fire at the “Le Constellation” bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, during New Year’s celebrations, killing at least 40 people, officials said, according to CNN.
Authorities said the fire spread rapidly due to a flashover, prompting Swiss prosecutors to open an investigation into possible criminal responsibility.
Addressing a press conference in Crans-Montana, Valais Cantonal Police Commander Frederic Gisler said emergency services responded swiftly after the blaze was reported in the early hours of New Year’s Day.
According to Gisler, smoke was first spotted rising from the bar located in the centre of the Swiss ski resort at around 1:30 am. Shortly afterwards, a witness alerted the emergency call centre, triggering a red alert that mobilised firefighting and rescue services.
The first responders from the Crans-Montana intercommunal police and the gendarmerie arrived at the scene at approximately 1:32 am, and were soon reinforced by additional emergency units, CNN reported.
“Their initial assignment was obviously to take care of the victims and provide emergency assistance,” Gisler said, adding that firefighters were able to bring the blaze under control quickly. “Following that, the initial investigations were able to start.”
Reception centres were later established to support those affected, while a helpline was launched at 4:14 am to assist families seeking information. “All of the injured people had received care by shortly after 5 am, thanks to this widescale mobilisation,” Gisler said.
Families of the victims now face a painful wait, as authorities cautioned that it may take several days to formally identify all those who died in the fire. “Currently and in the days to come, the priority will be identifying the people who have died so that their bodies can be returned quickly to their families,” Gisler said.
