A devastating fire at Le Constellation bar in the upscale Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana has claimed the lives of approximately 47 people during a New Year’s Eve celebration. Investigators began the challenging process of identifying the victims on January 1, 2024, as the tragedy left many families searching for answers regarding their missing loved ones.
The blaze erupted in the early hours, engulfing the crowded venue where many young revelers had gathered to celebrate the holiday. Swiss officials indicated that the severity of the burns on the victims could delay the identification process for days. Local authorities confirmed that over 112 individuals were injured, with many suffering serious injuries.
Mayor Nicolas Feraud addressed the media, stating, “The first objective is to assign names to all the bodies.” He emphasized the sensitive nature of the situation, noting that families would not receive information until officials were entirely certain about the identities. Mathias Reynard, head of the Valais government, mentioned that experts were employing dental records and DNA samples to aid in the identification process.
Several foreign nationals are among those affected. Reports indicate that Italy and France have confirmed missing citizens, with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani scheduled to visit Crans-Montana. Gian Lorenzo Cornado, Italy’s ambassador to Switzerland, indicated that while Swiss authorities have reported around 40 deaths, Italian sources suggest the toll could be as high as 47. Six Italians remain unaccounted for, and 13 others are hospitalized.
Authorities have cautioned that establishing a definitive death toll will take time due to the condition of the victims’ bodies. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, though initial reports suggest it was likely an accident. Survivors shared accounts of the rapid spread of flames, with some indicating that a ceiling fire ignited from nearby candles could be to blame.
The community of Crans-Montana, known for its skiing and golfing, has been left in shock. Many residents personally knew victims, leading to an outpouring of grief. Hundreds gathered near the scene to pay their respects, laying flowers and lighting candles at a makeshift memorial.
One local, Piermarco Pani, reflected on the tragedy, stating, “You think you’re safe here, but this can happen anywhere. They were people like us.”
As the investigation continues, local police have committed to working tirelessly to identify all victims. Behind police cordons, some bodies remain within the bar, underscoring the gravity of the situation for the grieving community.
At a vigil for the victims, Kean Sarbach, a 17-year-old, recounted conversations with survivors who described the intensity of the fire. Another local, Elisa Sousa, expressed gratitude for having avoided the event, stating, “Honestly, I’ll need to thank my mother a hundred times for not letting me go.”
In a sign of national mourning, Switzerland has ordered flags to be flown at half-mast for five days. The task of honoring the victims and supporting their families continues as the community comes together to process this heartbreaking event.
