By: The Trek News Desk
Authorities in Switzerland have identified 16 additional victims of the devastating fire that broke out at a bar in the ski resort town of Crans-Montana during New Year celebrations. Police said that with the latest identifications, the total number of confirmed victims now stands at 24, while the overall death toll from the incident has reached at least 40.
Among those identified is a 14-year-old Swiss girl, the youngest victim so far. Officials confirmed that nine of the identified victims were under the age of 18. The deceased include nationals from Switzerland, Italy, Romania, Turkiye and France. Earlier, eight Swiss victims had been formally identified and their bodies handed over to families.
Police said no further personal details would be released out of respect for the families. Several relatives are still waiting for news of loved ones who remain missing, adding to the anguish caused by the tragedy.
Preliminary findings suggest the blaze may have been triggered when sparklers attached to bottles were held too close to the ceiling during the celebrations. Investigators are examining whether the acoustic foam installed on the ceiling helped the fire spread rapidly and whether it complied with safety regulations.
Officials have confirmed that at least 119 people were injured in the incident. Many of the victims are believed to be teenagers. The bar, Le Constellation, was popular with younger patrons, and the legal drinking age in the area is 16.
Prosecutors in the Valais region said a criminal investigation is underway against the bar’s French owners, identified by local media as Jacques and Jessica Moretti. They are suspected of involuntary manslaughter, causing bodily harm through negligence, and negligent arson.
Valais canton’s chief prosecutor, Beatrice Pilloud, said investigators are focusing on whether the materials used inside the venue, particularly the ceiling insulation, played a central role in the disaster and met required safety standards.
Italy’s ambassador to Switzerland, Gian Lorenzo Cornado, said the identification process has been slow due to the severity of burns suffered by many victims. Reports have also suggested that a teenage girl who previously studied at two schools in the UK may be among those still missing.
Authorities stressed that the investigation is continuing and further updates will be shared as more information becomes available.
Source: News Agencies
