Swiss authorities are probing a devastating New Year’s Eve fire at a ski resort in Crans-Montana that killed at least 40 people and left more than 110 injured, with investigators saying the blaze was likely triggered by sparklers placed on champagne bottles.
Swiss authorities are investigating a deadly New Year’s Eve fire at a resort in Crans-Montana that killed at least 40 people and injured more than 110, with officials saying the blaze was probably caused by sparklers placed on champagne bottles.
According to Beatrice Pilloud, the Attorney General of the Valais region, preliminary findings suggest that sparkling candles or flares were placed on top of champagne bottles and brought too close to the ceiling, allowing the fire to spread rapidly. “Everything leads us to think that the fire began very quickly as a result of this,” Pilloud said. Investigators are analysing videos from the scene and questioning multiple witnesses to establish the exact sequence of events.
The fire spread with alarming speed, injuring 113 people, while six victims are still in the process of being formally identified. Police commander Frederic Gisler said that among the injured were 71 Swiss nationals, 14 French, 11 Italian, and several people of other nationalities. The nationalities of 14 injured individuals are yet to be confirmed, and the figures may change as investigations continue.
Authorities said identifying the 40 people who lost their lives remains their top priority. Gisler described the process as complex and time-consuming, involving coordination with several countries and specialist teams, but assured that sufficient resources are in place to complete the task.
Swiss officials have received assistance from neighbouring countries, particularly France and Italy. Mathias Reynard, president of the Valais region, thanked French authorities for swiftly transferring injured victims to hospitals in France equipped to treat severe burns. Italy has also extended support, with Italian officials travelling to Switzerland to assist the families of Italian victims.
Around 50 injured people have already been transferred, or are in the process of being transferred, to specialised burn centres across Europe. Police commander Pierre-Antoine Lengen stressed that extreme care is being taken during the identification process to avoid any errors.
A solemn ceremony will be held in Crans-Montana on Friday, January 9, to honour the victims. Authorities have also announced that an online book of condolences will be opened on Saturday, January 3, allowing people to express their support and sympathy for those affected by the tragedy.
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