In Crans-Montana, the atmosphere shifted from celebratory to somber just three days after a tragic fire at Le Constellation bar ended New Year festivities abruptly. Over 2,000 mourners, including families of the victims, participated in a silent march through the streets of the Swiss ski-resort town. The procession culminated at the site of the fire, where mourners placed flowers and candles at a growing memorial outside the bar.
Attendees of all ages embarked on the short walk uphill after attending a special mass at a nearby church, where Bishop Jean-Marie Lovey became emotional during the service. The packed mass, held at St Christophe Chapel, began at 9 am UK-time. Despite the minus eight-degree temperature outside, additional spectators watched the service on a giant screen and loudspeakers.
Following the silent march, mourners gathered outside the bar for a vigil to honor the deceased. A poignant moment was marked by a female vocalist singing Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah.” Attendees also signed a book of condolence placed on a small table next to the memorial.
During the one-hour service, tributes were paid to the victims, and a church choir and soloists performed songs. Mourners, including survivors, embraced and shed tears while honoring the victims. The service, conducted in French, German, and Italian, highlighted the uncertainty faced by families awaiting news on their loved ones.
The tragic incident claimed the lives of partygoers as young as 14, with the fire starting at 1:30 am on New Year’s Day due to a sparkler igniting the ceiling. Among the missing individuals are Charlotte Niddam, 15, and two sisters, Diana and Alicia Gonset, aged 14 and 15. The police have identified 24 victims so far, including individuals from various nationalities and age groups.
The owners of the bar, Jacques and Jessica Moretti, are under investigation for suspected manslaughter, negligence causing bodily harm, and negligence leading to arson. Criticism has been directed at them for alleged safety lapses inside the bar, prompting questions about regulatory enforcement. Mayor Nicolas Féraud has defended the municipality’s actions, stating that all relevant reports have been submitted to the public prosecutor’s office.