Swiss Alps New Year’s Fire: Victims Identified, examination Underway
Table of Contents
All 116 people injured in the New Year’s Day fire at the Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, have been identified, according too swiss police. The incident, which occured in the early hours of January 1st, resulted in 40 fatalities and continues to be investigated by authorities.
Nationalities of Those Affected
The victims represent a diverse range of nationalities. According to police statements, 68 Swiss citizens, 21 French nationals, 10 Italians, four Serbs, and two Polish citizens were among those injured. additionally, one citizen each from Australia, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, the Czech Republic, Luxembourg, Portugal, and the Republic of Congo were also affected. four individuals held dual citizenship – France and Finland, France and Italy, Switzerland and Belgium, and Italy and the Philippines.
Ongoing Medical Care
As of January 6, 2026, 83 individuals remain hospitalized, receiving treatment for their injuries. Authorities have not released specific details regarding the conditions of those still receiving medical care.
Victim Identification and Repatriation
Identifying all the victims proved challenging due to the severity of some injuries, requiring DNA analysis from families.Italian authorities repatriated the bodies of five victims on Monday, January 5th, in a somber ceremony at Sion airport Sky news.
Cause of the Fire and Criminal Investigation
Authorities believe the fire was likely triggered by celebratory sparklers used near champagne bottles, igniting flammable materials close to the ceiling. A criminal investigation has been launched, focusing on the managers of the Le constellation bar. They are suspected of involuntary homicide, bodily harm, and arson, according to the Valais region’s chief prosecutor Sky News.
Remembering the Victims
Among the deceased was Charlotte Niddam, a 15-year-old with British, Israeli, and French citizenship, who attended Immanuel College in Hertfordshire.
Date Published: 2026/01/06 02:57:10
Related reading