Authorities provided an update on the tragic incident at a Swiss ski resort, where 40 individuals lost their lives in a fire. The primary focus of the investigation is on sparklers believed to have ignited the blaze in a crowded bar.
During a press briefing, Valais attorney general Beatrice Pilloud confirmed that the use of sparklers, resembling birthday cake candles, near the bar’s ceiling is a key aspect of the inquiry. Online images depict how the sparklers ignited foam panels on the ceiling, leading to a rapid spread of the fire in the basement bar. Investigators are examining whether the use of sparklers in enclosed spaces was permissible.
Pilloud stated at the press conference that the fire likely originated from sparkler candles placed atop champagne bottles, which were inadvertently brought too close to the ceiling. This action resulted in a rapid spread of the fire known as a flashover incident.
Additionally, investigators will assess the safety compliance of the foam ceiling. This update marked the third briefing by authorities since the tragic event on New Year’s Eve. The identification process for the 40 victims is ongoing, with specialists analyzing fingerprints, objects, clothing, and DNA samples to establish their identities.
Valais Canton police chief Frederic Gisler mentioned that out of the 119 survivors, 113 have been identified. The incident occurred at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, where a large crowd, mainly young revelers celebrating the New Year, was present.
The first victim identified was Emanuele Galeppini, a 17-year-old Italian golf player. The Italian Golf Federation expressed condolences, highlighting Galeppini’s passion and values as a young athlete.
Numerous distressing accounts have emerged of people attempting to flee the bar in panic as the fire, believed to have started from sparklers attached to champagne bottles, engulfed the premises. Social media platforms are being used by families and friends to locate missing individuals in the aftermath of the tragedy.