Investigators in Switzerland have successfully identified all 40 victims of the catastrophic fire that tore through Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana on New Year’s Eve. The tragedy, which authorities believe was ignited by sparklers attached to champagne bottles, claimed the lives of 40 revelers, including 26 teenagers between the ages of 14 and 18.
The fire is described as a “flashover” event, where heat build-up caused the venue to ignite almost simultaneously in a matter of seconds. Victims hailed from seven different nations, including Switzerland, Italy, France, Britain, Israel, Romania, and Turkey. Due to the intensity of the blaze, several individuals required DNA analysis for formal identification.
The investigation has now pivoted toward potential criminal negligence. The bar’s owners, Jacques and Jessica Moretti, are currently under investigation for suspected manslaughter, bodily harm, and arson by negligence. Investigators are specifically scrutinizing the soundproofing material used on the ceiling to determine if it met fire safety codes.
Former employees have come forward with allegations of severe safety lapses at the venue. Statements provided to investigators suggest that fire extinguishers were routinely kept in a locked room and that the primary emergency exit was frequently bolted shut. One witness, a former waitress, claimed staff were encouraged to use indoor pyrotechnics on bottles to “put on a show” for customers despite the risks.
Among those confirmed dead was 18-year-old amateur boxer Benjamin Johnson. Witnesses reported that Johnson died while successfully pushing a friend to safety as the flashover occurred. Other victims included Emanuele Galeppini, 17, a rising international junior golfer, and 15-year-old Charlotte Niddam, a dual British-Israeli national who worked at the resort.
A silent procession was held in Crans-Montana on Sunday, with thousands of residents and grieving families marching to demand accountability. Swiss security officials have stated that the scale of the disaster suggests a fundamental failure in either the building’s materials or the site’s safety organization. Bodies are now being released to their respective home countries for burial.
