Investigators believe that fountain sparklers mounted on champagne bottles and held too close to the ceiling sparked the deadly fire at a bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana, killing about 40 people and injuring more than 100.
Prosecutor Béatrice Pilloud said on Friday that mobile phone footage and witness statements showed a rapid and widespread conflagration after the sparklers, also known as Bengal lights, were held aloft. The fire broke out at about 1.30am on Thursday at Le Constellation bar, which was packed with mostly young people celebrating the new year.
Pilloud said investigators would examine the bar's compliance with safety regulations, including materials used in renovation, its operating licence, fire extinguishers, emergency exits, and the number of people present. An image circulating online appeared to show the ceiling clad with foam soundproofing panels catching fire.
Mathias Reynard, president of the Valais regional government, said authorities were working to identify victims using dental records, DNA, and clothing descriptions. Emanuele Galeppini, a 16-year-old Italian golfer from Dubai, was named as the first identified Italian victim. The death toll stood at 40, with formal identification continuing.
Police chief Frédéric Gisler said 119 people were injured, including 71 Swiss, 14 French, 11 Italians, and others. EU and French authorities offered medical assistance. A memorial ceremony is planned for 9 January.
Pilloud said no criminal liability had been established yet, but an investigation could be opened for negligent arson, negligent homicide, and negligent bodily injury if warranted. The bar's owners, French nationals Jacques and Jessica Moretti, have been questioned but not under caution.
