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Crans-Montana Fire: 24 Victims Identified as Switzerland Sets Jan. 9 Day of Mourning

Prosecutors have opened a negligent-homicide case against the bar’s operators following indications that party fountains ignited ceiling foam.

Overview

  • Police report that 24 of roughly 40 people killed have been identified, including several minors and a 14-year-old Swiss girl.
  • A national memorial in Crans-Montana and a countrywide minute of silence with church bells at 14:00 are scheduled for January 9, with President Guy Parmelin planning to attend.
  • Valais authorities have launched criminal proceedings against the two operators of Le Constellation on suspicion of negligent homicide, negligent injury and causing a blaze.
  • Investigators say spark-emitting fountains attached to champagne bottles likely ignited foam on the ceiling, and checks on fire-safety compliance and inspection frequency are under way.
  • About 119 people were injured, many severely; several patients were transferred to specialist clinics abroad, including 11 to Germany, as an eyewitness allegation about a blocked exit remains under review.