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Crans-Montana Bar Fire Leaves More Than 40 Dead as Probe Centers on Flashover

Authorities pursue an accident inquiry centered on flashover, with victim identification ongoing.

Overview

  • Police report more than 40 fatalities and about 115 injuries, with many victims aged 16 to 26 suffering severe burns.
  • Investigators’ leading hypothesis is a rapid full-room fire (flashover) that produced an explosion-like pressure event, not a deliberate attack.
  • Phones seized at the scene and circulating, unverified clips are being analyzed after witnesses described sparklers on champagne bottles near the ceiling.
  • No arrests or suspects have been announced, while questions about exits, occupancy and fire-safety compliance at the basement venue are under review.
  • Specialist burn units in Lausanne and Zurich are treating dozens of critical patients, Geneva is preparing to receive relatives, and officials say foreign nationals are among the victims.