Swiss prosecutors have launched a criminal investigation into the two managers of the Constellation bar in Crans-Montana after a blaze on January 1, 2026 left at least 40 people dead and injured 119 more. 😔
The charges include homicide by negligence, bodily harm by negligence and arson by negligence, the Valais canton prosecutor's office announced on January 2. Authorities say sparklers attached to champagne bottles may have ignited foam panels on the ceiling, triggering the inferno.
So far, investigators have identified four Swiss victims: a 21-year-old woman, an 18-year-old man, and two 16-year-old teenagers. Their remains have been returned to grieving families as efforts continue to name the other victims—many of whom are believed to be foreign visitors drawn by the resort’s international reputation.
Nearby hospitals are working around the clock: of the 119 injured, 113 have now been identified, according to Wallis regional police commander Frédéric Gisler. Dozens of the most severely burned were transferred to medical centers in neighboring countries for specialized care.
At the site of the tragedy, a touching memorial has grown. Flowers, candles and handwritten messages cover the makeshift altar outside the Constellation bar. One note read: Courage to all the families—we're thinking of you. 💐🕯️
The tight-knit Alpine community of Crans-Montana remains in shock. Local officials say conversations are filled with grief and questions, as families await news and authorities press on with the criminal inquiry.
With prosecutors now charging the bar managers, all eyes will be on the coming weeks as Switzerland seeks answers and accountability for one of the deadliest club fires in recent memory.
Reference(s):
Swiss prosecutors place inferno bar managers under investigation
cgtn.com
