Sparklers on Champagne Bottles Likely Cause of Deadly Swiss Bar Fire
A tragic fire at a bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana is believed to have been sparked by sparklers placed on champagne bottles that came “too close to the ceiling,” according to authorities. This devastating incident, which occurred in the early hours of New Year’s Day, resulted in the loss of 40 lives and left 119 others injured.
Key Details of the Incident
– Investigation Details:
– Valais Attorney General Beatrice Pilloud announced that the investigation will scrutinize the materials used at the bar, its fire safety measures, and current occupancy details.
– Potential prosecutions will be explored based on findings, with Pilloud stating, “If that is the case, and if those people are still alive, there will be a case opened against them.”
– Cause of the Fire:
– Preliminary evidence suggests the fire originated from sparklers on champagne bottles, according to Ms. Pilloud. These sparklers ignited rapidly when they were moved too close to the ceiling.
– Victim Identification:
– Authorities are focused on formally identifying the 40 deceased victims. Police Commander Frédéric Gisler stated, “That is our priority.”
– Out of the 119 injured, 113 individuals have been identified, including:
– 71 Swiss citizens
– 14 French nationals
– 11 Italians
– 4 Serbs
– The formal identification of an additional six individuals continues, with potential for numbers to change.
– Medical Assistance:
– Mathias Reynard, president of the Valais region, shared that around 50 injured individuals are being transferred or will soon be moved to specialized burn treatment centers across Europe.
– Among the injured is 19-year-old French footballer Tahirys Dos Santos, who has been severely burned and is currently receiving treatment in Germany.
Families Await Updates
Families of those missing are anxiously awaiting news. Notably, 16-year-old Italian Achille Barosi, who entered the bar to retrieve his belongings at 1:30 AM, remains unaccounted for. His aunt, Francesca, revealed their fear for his safety, stating, “We don’t know if he’s still alive.”
Victim Identification Process
The process employed for victim identification is known as “Disaster Victim Identification.” This involves a coordinated effort among forensic specialists, doctors, dentists, and investigators to compile critical data to identify the deceased.
Investigation Insights
Ms. Pilloud indicated that the investigation will also assess if the bar’s ceiling adhered to building codes, particularly concerning foam installation. She emphasized, “It’s essential we don’t make any assumptions… leave us to do our work.”
– Eyewitness Accounts:
– Eyewitness Lea Zehnder, who was nearby during the incident, recounted hearing screams and witnessing her boyfriend assist those with severe burns. She indicated they had opted for another venue by chance, as they typically frequented Le Constellation.
– Tristan Fischer shared concerns about his brother’s mental well-being after he helped rescue others by breaking windows amidst the chaos.
Community Response
Le Constellation, a popular bar with a capacity for 300 people, has become the center of grief and mourning. Families and friends have gathered near the police cordon, leaving flowers, candles, and heartfelt messages at makeshift shrines.
A conference center outside town is offering support to families impacted by the tragedy, and a ceremony is scheduled for January 9 in Crans-Montana to foster a moment of “national mourning.”
As investigations continue into this harrowing event, the community grapples with its profound loss and the hope for clarity surrounding the causes and circumstances of this devastating fire.