Recently released footage captures the moment a devastating fire swept through a popular bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, on New Year’s Eve. The Le Constellation bar was engulfed in flames at 1:30 am on January 1 while guests, mostly young adults, were enjoying the festive atmosphere. Witnesses reported seeing staff carrying champagne bottles with lit sparklers just before the fire ignited.
Images from the scene depict the precise instant when the sparklers triggered the fire, resulting in approximately 47 fatalities and over 115 injuries. Videos taken during the incident show the rapid spread of flames through the ceiling as partygoers looked on. Despite the impending tragedy, initial reactions were subdued, with attendees filming the flames on their phones amidst the music and lights.
Another video angle shows a person attempting unsuccessfully to extinguish the fire using a cloth, while others stood nearby. Swiss authorities have indicated that the fire is suspected to have originated from the sparklers attached to the champagne bottles. Beatrice Pilloud, the Valais attorney general, mentioned that the sparkler theory is among several hypotheses being investigated.
Pilloud stated, “No scenario is being excluded. Our current assumption is that the fire started due to sparklers on champagne bottles coming into contact with the ceiling, causing rapid spreading. Initial evidence has been collected at the site.” She also commented on social media footage, suggesting it was filmed by individuals attempting to aid during the crisis.
Regarding interviews with the bar’s owners, Pilloud clarified that no criminal responsibility has been established in connection to the incident. Individuals questioned have not been treated as suspects. She further explained, “Those interviewed are not suspects. If there are concerns of flight risk, we may take appropriate actions, but as of now, no criminal liability has been determined.”
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