Swiss Bar Fire: All 40 Victims Identified as Investigation Continues
Published 4 January 2026
Highlights
- All 40 victims of the Crans-Montana bar fire have been identified, with ages ranging from 14 to 39, including multiple nationalities.
- The fire, occurring on New Year's Day, injured 119 people, with six suffering severe burns that hinder identification.
- A criminal investigation is underway against the bar owners, suspected of negligence leading to manslaughter and arson.
- The fire is believed to have been caused by sparklers on champagne bottles igniting the ceiling's acoustic foam.
- A memorial service was held, with hundreds attending to honor the victims, including notable figures like Swiss President Guy Parmelin.
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Rewritten Article
Headline: Swiss Bar Fire: All 40 Victims Identified as Investigation Continues
In the wake of a devastating fire at the Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, Swiss authorities have confirmed the identification of all 40 victims. The tragedy, which unfolded in the early hours of New Year's Day, has left a deep scar on the Swiss ski resort community. The victims, aged between 14 and 39, hailed from various countries, including Switzerland, Italy, Romania, Turkey, Portugal, France, Belgium, and the UK.
Identification and Investigation
The identification process was painstaking, with forensic experts relying on DNA samples and dental records due to the severe burns suffered by many victims. Among those identified was Charlotte Niddam, a 15-year-old with ties to the UK, whose family expressed their grief on social media. The fire also claimed the life of Arthur Brodard, a 16-year-old Swiss boy, whose mother shared her sorrow online.
A criminal investigation has been launched against the bar's owners, Jacques and Jessica Moretti, who face charges of manslaughter and arson by negligence. Preliminary findings suggest that sparklers on champagne bottles may have ignited the ceiling's acoustic foam, leading to the blaze. Authorities are scrutinizing the bar's safety measures and compliance with fire regulations.
Community Mourning and Memorials
The local community has been deeply affected, with hundreds gathering for a memorial service at St Christopher's Church. The service was marked by raw emotions, as mourners remembered those lost and supported families still grappling with the tragedy. A silent procession followed, leading to a growing shrine of flowers and tributes outside the bar.
Swiss President Guy Parmelin described the incident as one of the country's worst tragedies, emphasizing the need for unity and support. The local fire commander, David Vocat, praised his team for their efforts, despite the overwhelming challenges they faced during the rescue operations.
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Scenario Analysis
As the investigation progresses, the focus will likely remain on the bar's safety protocols and the materials used in its construction. Legal proceedings against the owners could set a precedent for fire safety enforcement in Switzerland's hospitality industry. The tragedy has sparked calls for stricter regulations and inspections to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The emotional impact on the Crans-Montana community is profound, with ongoing support needed for the victims' families and those recovering from injuries. The incident underscores the importance of fire safety awareness and the potential consequences of negligence in public venues.
In the wake of a devastating fire at the Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, Swiss authorities have confirmed the identification of all 40 victims. The tragedy, which unfolded in the early hours of New Year's Day, has left a deep scar on the Swiss ski resort community. The victims, aged between 14 and 39, hailed from various countries, including Switzerland, Italy, Romania, Turkey, Portugal, France, Belgium, and the UK.
Identification and Investigation
The identification process was painstaking, with forensic experts relying on DNA samples and dental records due to the severe burns suffered by many victims. Among those identified was Charlotte Niddam, a 15-year-old with ties to the UK, whose family expressed their grief on social media. The fire also claimed the life of Arthur Brodard, a 16-year-old Swiss boy, whose mother shared her sorrow online.
A criminal investigation has been launched against the bar's owners, Jacques and Jessica Moretti, who face charges of manslaughter and arson by negligence. Preliminary findings suggest that sparklers on champagne bottles may have ignited the ceiling's acoustic foam, leading to the blaze. Authorities are scrutinizing the bar's safety measures and compliance with fire regulations.
Community Mourning and Memorials
The local community has been deeply affected, with hundreds gathering for a memorial service at St Christopher's Church. The service was marked by raw emotions, as mourners remembered those lost and supported families still grappling with the tragedy. A silent procession followed, leading to a growing shrine of flowers and tributes outside the bar.
Swiss President Guy Parmelin described the incident as one of the country's worst tragedies, emphasizing the need for unity and support. The local fire commander, David Vocat, praised his team for their efforts, despite the overwhelming challenges they faced during the rescue operations.
What this might mean
As the investigation progresses, the focus will likely remain on the bar's safety protocols and the materials used in its construction. Legal proceedings against the owners could set a precedent for fire safety enforcement in Switzerland's hospitality industry. The tragedy has sparked calls for stricter regulations and inspections to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The emotional impact on the Crans-Montana community is profound, with ongoing support needed for the victims' families and those recovering from injuries. The incident underscores the importance of fire safety awareness and the potential consequences of negligence in public venues.
