Swiss authorities confirmed on Sunday that all 40 individuals who tragically lost their lives in the New Year’s Eve bar fire in Switzerland have been identified, with teenagers accounting for over half of the deceased. The last 16 victims were recently identified by Valais Police in connection with the devastating incident that occurred in the early hours of January 1 at the Crans-Montana mountain resort.
The fire, described as one of Switzerland’s most catastrophic disasters in recent memory, has prompted an overwhelming display of mourning across the nation, which is set to observe a national day of mourning in the coming week. A solemn procession was held in Crans-Montana with hundreds of people walking silently through the chilly streets to honor the fire victims, who also left over 100 individuals injured.
During a church service in the town, Bishop Jean-Marie Lovey acknowledged the global outpouring of condolences, including a message of sympathy from Pope Leo XIV. The bishop expressed gratitude for the widespread support and solidarity extended to those impacted by the tragedy.
Among the deceased, 26 were teenagers, including a 14-year-old from France and another from Switzerland, although their identities have not been disclosed. The nationalities of the victims spanned Switzerland, France, Italy, Romania, Turkey, Portugal, and Belgium, with one victim holding dual Swiss-French citizenship and a 15-year-old girl holding French, Israeli, and British nationalities.
The mother of a 16-year-old Swiss boy, Arthur Brodard, confirmed his tragic passing, expressing her acceptance of his peaceful rest. The nation is preparing for a national day of mourning on Friday, as announced by Swiss President Guy Parmelin, featuring a nationwide minute of silence and tolling church bells to commemorate the victims and their families.
According to the region’s chief prosecutor, the fire likely originated from “fountain candle” sparklers being held too close to the bar’s ceiling at the Constellation establishment. Investigations have led to two individuals associated with the bar facing criminal scrutiny for suspected offenses, including negligence resulting in death and injuries, though they have not been detained as there is no indication of them evading legal proceedings.
Swiss authorities revealed that 119 individuals sustained injuries, many with severe burns, prompting the transfer of 35 patients from Swiss hospitals to specialized medical facilities in Belgium, France, Germany, and Italy for advanced care.