Swiss police have confirmed that all 40 people killed in the fire at Le Constellation bar in the ski resort of Crans-Montana on New Year’s Eve, 31 December, have now been formally identified.
The victims were aged between 14 and 39, with 15 under the age of 18. The youngest were a 14-year-old Swiss girl and a 14-year-old French boy. Police said the victims included nationals of Switzerland, Italy, Romania, Turkey, Portugal, France, Belgium, the United Kingdom, and Israel.
Authorities said the names of the victims would not be released publicly out of respect for their families.
In addition to those killed, 119 people were injured, most of them suffering severe burns.
At least six injured people were initially so badly burned that they could not be identified. Several victims remain hospitalised and unconscious, according to officials.
A national day of mourning was held in Switzerland on 9 January.
Fire cause under investigation
A preliminary investigation found that the fire likely started when sparklers attached to champagne bottles ignited the foam covering on the bar’s ceiling.
Video footage from inside the venue appears to show sparks reaching the ceiling before flames spread rapidly.
The bar was located in a basement and had one main staircase leading out. Investigators are examining whether safety regulations were followed.
Beatrice Pilloud, lead prosecutor for the Valais canton, said investigators are examining whether the ceiling material complied with safety standards.
“We are looking into whether the acoustic foam was the cause of the problem and whether it complied with regulations,” Pilloud said.
Authorities are also reviewing possible overcrowding, emergency exit access, and the availability of fire extinguishers.
Criminal case opened
A criminal investigation has been opened against the French couple who managed the bar, identified by media as Jacques and Jessica Moretti.
Prosecutors said they are suspected of:
Manslaughter by negligence
Causing bodily harm by negligence
Arson by negligence
No charges or penalties have yet been imposed.
The investigation is ongoing.
Victims confirmed by families
Although police did not release names, several families and institutions confirmed deaths publicly.
Arthur Brodard, 16, was confirmed dead by his mother, Laetitia Brodard-Sitre, who wrote on Facebook:
“We can start our mourning, knowing that he is in peace and in the light.”
She later told local newspaper Le Temps that she had been “living a nightmare” while waiting for confirmation.
Charlotte Niddam, believed to be 15, who previously attended schools in Hertfordshire and north-west London, was confirmed dead by her family. The UK Foreign Secretary also acknowledged her death publicly.
Italian media reported that Emanuele Galeppini, 16, a junior golfer, was among the victims, following a statement from the Italian Golf Federation.
A bouncer at the bar, known as Stefi, was also remembered by colleagues during a memorial gathering, though his full name was not released.
Hundreds attended a memorial service at St Christopher’s Church in Crans-Montana on Sunday, 7 January. Some mourners required medical assistance after fainting during the service.
Outside the bar, flowers, candles, photographs, and handwritten messages have continued to gather.
Local fire commander David Vocat said the tragedy had deeply affected emergency responders.
“All my thoughts are for the victims and their families,” he said. “I am so sorry.”
Survivors have described scenes of confusion as the fire spread quickly, with some people initially unaware of the danger.
Police said further details would be released only when the investigation allows.
