All 40 individuals who lost their lives in the tragic New Year’s Eve bar fire in Switzerland have now been positively identified, as confirmed by authorities on Sunday. Teenagers accounted for more than half of the total victims.
Valais Police announced that the final 16 victims have been officially recognized following the devastating incident that occurred at the Crans-Montana mountain resort early on January 1. This fire has been marked as one of the most severe tragedies in recent Swiss history, prompting a widespread expression of sorrow in Switzerland. The country is preparing to observe a national day of mourning in the coming week.
In a touching display of remembrance, hundreds of people participated in a silent march through the chilly streets of Crans-Montana to honor the fire victims, with over 100 individuals also sustaining injuries. Earlier on the same day, mourners attended a church service in the town, where Bishop Jean-Marie Lovey conveyed condolences that poured in globally, including from the Pope.
Bishop Lovey mentioned during the service, “Countless individuals are standing by us—individuals whose hearts ache for us. Numerous messages of sympathy and support have reached us.” He further shared that “Pope Leo XIV is mourning with us,” showing empathy and concern towards the families of the victims and offering strength to all affected by the tragedy.
Among the deceased, 26 were teenagers, including a 14-year-old from France and a 14-year-old from Switzerland, as stated by the police. The victims comprised 21 Swiss citizens, seven French nationals, and six Italians. Additionally, individuals from Romania, Turkey, Portugal, and Belgium were among the casualties, along with one Swiss-French dual citizen and a 15-year-old girl holding French, Israeli, and British citizenship.
A mother confirmed that her 16-year-old son, Arthur Brodard, was among the victims. Laetitia Brodard-Sitre shared on social media, “Now we can commence our mourning, knowing he rests in peace.”
Switzerland is set to observe a national day of mourning on Friday, announced by national president Guy Parmelin. The day will include church bells tolling across the country and a moment of silence to honor the victims. Reflecting on the tragic incident, Parmelin stated, “During this period of contemplation, every individual in Switzerland can personally pay tribute to those affected by the calamity.”
The fire is believed to have originated from “fountain candle” sparklers being held too close to the ceiling at the Constellation bar, according to the region’s chief prosecutor. Investigations revealed that 119 individuals sustained injuries, with many suffering severe burns. The Swiss government confirmed the transfer of 35 patients from Swiss hospitals to specialized clinics in Belgium, France, Germany, and Italy.
Two individuals responsible for managing the bar are currently under criminal investigation on suspicion of various offenses, including negligent homicide. The police disclosed that a criminal inquiry has been initiated following initial assessments, focusing on charges of negligent bodily harm and causing a fire due to negligence. The suspects, who remain unnamed, have not been detained as there are no indications of them evading legal proceedings.