Authorities have provided an update on the tragic incident at a Swiss ski resort where a fire claimed the lives of 40 individuals. They have indicated that the primary focus of their investigation is centered on sparklers believed to have ignited the fire in a crowded bar.
During a press briefing, Valais attorney general Beatrice Pilloud acknowledged that social media footage showing sparklers close to the bar’s ceiling aligns with their main investigative lead. She likened the sparklers to common birthday cake candles available for purchase at most stores.
Online images depict the sparklers igniting foam panels on the ceiling, leading to a rapid spread of the fire throughout the bar’s basement. Investigators are now examining whether the use of sparklers in enclosed spaces was permitted.
Pilloud explained, “Evidence suggests that the fire originated from sparkler candles, also known as flares, placed atop champagne bottles. These flares were brought in close proximity to the ceiling, triggering a rapid spread known as a flashover incident.”
The regional attorney general also highlighted that authorities will scrutinize the compliance of the foam ceiling with safety regulations.
This announcement marks the third update provided by officials following the tragic New Year’s Eve fire. Identification procedures for the 40 victims are ongoing, with specialized teams analyzing fingerprints, objects, clothing, and DNA samples to determine their identities.
Valais Canton police chief Frederic Gisler disclosed that out of the 119 survivors, 113 have been identified. The victims hailed from various nationalities.
The fire ravaged the Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, attracting a predominantly youthful crowd celebrating New Year. The initial victim identified in the fire was Emanuele Galeppini, a 17-year-old Italian golfer, mourned by the Italian Golf Federation for his athletic prowess and values.
Reports have also surfaced detailing the chaos and panic as patrons attempted to evacuate the bar believed to have caught fire from sparklers affixed to champagne bottles. Families and friends have turned to social media platforms to aid in the search for missing individuals.