Three days after the lively New Year festivities were abruptly ended by a tragic incident, Crans-Montana observed a moment of silence today. Families of the victims of the Le Constellation bar fire, along with over 2,000 mourners, participated in a quiet march through the streets of the Swiss ski-resort. They paid their respects at the site of the tragedy, where 40 people lost their lives and 119 others were injured, leaving flowers and candles at a growing memorial outside the bar.
People of all ages made their way up the hill after attending a special mass at a nearby church, where Bishop Jean-Marie Lovey became emotional during the service. The mass commenced at 9am UK-time in the packed St Christophe Chapel, with additional attendees watching via a large screen and loudspeakers outside in the minus eight-degree temperature.
After the silent march, mourners gathered at the scene of the disaster for a vigil to honor the deceased. A touching rendition of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” by a female vocalist was performed, and attendees signed a condolence book placed on a small table beside the memorial.
During the one-hour service, tributes were paid to the victims, accompanied by singing from a church choir and soloists. Mourners, including survivors, comforted each other and shed tears openly. Applause broke out spontaneously for a group of firefighters who participated in the march to the bar. The service featured readings in French, German, and Italian.
Reverend Gilles Cavin addressed the heart-wrenching situation faced by families awaiting news of their loved ones’ fate, emphasizing the day’s intended celebration turning into tragedy. Notable attendees included Italy’s Ambassador to Switzerland, Gian Lorenzo Cornado, and Crans-Montana President Nicolas Feraud.
The sorrowful scenes unfolded as families awaited confirmation of their loved ones’ identities. Among those feared deceased were teenagers as young as 14, including Charlotte Niddam and sisters Diana and Alicia Gonset. The police had identified 24 victims by Sunday morning, including individuals of various nationalities and ages.
Authorities announced an investigation into the owners of the bar, Jacques and Jessica Moretti, on suspicion of negligence leading to manslaughter, bodily harm, and arson. The couple, claiming adherence to regulations, faced criticism over alleged safety lapses within the premises. Mayor Nicolas Féraud defended the municipality’s actions, stating that all relevant reports had been handed over to the public prosecutor’s office.
The tragic events highlighted the need for thorough safety measures and inspections within public establishments, emphasizing the importance of adherence to regulations to prevent such devastating incidents.