Tragedy struck a popular Swiss ski resort bar on New Year’s Eve when a fire broke out that has killed at least 40 people and injured many more.
Per CNN, officials say the blaze likely began after sparklers on champagne bottles came too close to the ceiling, triggering an extremely rapid and deadly fire reaction. Swiss prosecutors have opened a criminal investigation to determine responsibility.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes as people tried to flee. Videos shared online show flames racing across the ceiling of Le Constellation bar in Crans‑Montana while crowds rushed up a narrow staircase toward the exit. Emergency crews were seen tending to victims as blue lights flashed outside the building.
Authorities have warned that identifying those who died or were badly burned could take several days. Families from across Europe remain anxious for news of loved ones who were celebrating the New Year with friends when the blaze swept through the packed venue.
How the fire likely started
Swiss Chief Prosecutor Beatrice Pilloud told journalists that investigators believe the deadly fire began with sparklers placed in champagne bottles.
“Some hypotheses can be confirmed,” Pilloud said. “As things stand, everything points to the fire starting from sparklers or flares placed in champagne bottles that came too close to the ceiling, which very rapidly led to a flashover fire.”
Images shared on social media appear to show staff holding champagne bottles with lit sparklers in the tightly packed bar just before flames and smoke broke out on the ceiling. One fire expert called the acoustic paneling that caught fire “plastic petrol,” a phrase used in reports to describe how easily the material spread flames.
Reaction and ongoing response
Officials say at least 119 people from nine different European countries were injured, with many suffering serious burns. Health authorities reported that around 50 of the injured have been or will be transferred to hospitals in other countries for specialist treatment. French and Italian authorities have aided in medical transfers.
Chief of Health Department Mathias Reynard said the transfers “have already begun to French hospitals” and more help was offered by Italy. A ceremony for families and the community to grieve will take place in Crans‑Montana on January 9.
The Italian Foreign Minister called the use of fireworks in the bar “an irresponsible choice,” and said dozens of interrogations are underway to determine who managed the establishment and who may be responsible for what happened. Swiss officials expressed deep gratitude for international support in the wake of the tragedy.