Reported from the source

Quick summary: A fire at a bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana on New Year’s Day, which killed 40 people and injured 119, was likely caused by sparklers on champagne bottles placed too close to the ceiling, authorities said. Valais Attorney General Beatrice Pilloud stated that the investigation would focus on the materials used, the bar’s fire safety measures, its capacity, and the number of people present. Formal identification of the deceased is ongoing, with many of the injured remaining in critical condition.

Authorities in Switzerland have indicated that sparklers on champagne bottles, brought “too close to the ceiling,” are the probable cause of a fatal fire at a bar in Crans-Montana in the early hours of New Year’s Day. The blaze resulted in 40 fatalities and 119 injuries. Valais Attorney General Beatrice Pilloud confirmed that the investigation would examine the materials used on the site, the bar’s fire safety measures, its capacity, and the number of people inside at the time. The inquiry will also explore whether the bar ceiling complied with building regulations, specifically regarding the installation of foam. Pilloud added that potential prosecutions would be pursued if warranted. One of the bar’s owners reportedly told local media that the establishment had undergone three inspections in the past decade and adhered to regulations. Police commander Frédéric Gisler stated that the formal identification of the 40 deceased is a priority, utilizing a “Disaster Victim Identification” process. Of the 119 injured, 113 have been formally identified, including 71 Swiss, 14 French, and 11 Italians. Many of the injured remain in critical condition, with approximately 50 transferred to specialized burn centers in European countries. Among the injured is 19-year-old French footballer Tahirys Dos Santos, who was severely burned and airlifted to Germany. Families of missing individuals, such as 16-year-old Italian national Achille Barosi, are still awaiting updates. A conference center is providing support to the families of the missing, and a ceremony for “national mourning” is scheduled for January 9 in Crans-Montana.

Source: www.bbc.com