Fire kills 47 in Switzerland, sparked by fireworks

2026-01-03 08:23:50Kosova&Bota SHKRUAR NGA REDAKSIA VOX

Fire kills 47 in Switzerland, sparked by fireworks

At least 47 people have died and over 110 others have been injured, many of them in critical condition, after a devastating fire broke out on New Year's Eve at the "Le Constellation" bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland.

There are also many minors among the victims.

According to Swiss authorities, during a New Year's Eve party, it spread with extraordinary speed after sparks from fireworks placed on champagne bottles touched the ceiling covered with sound-absorbing material and wood.

Within minutes, the bar was engulfed in flames, turning into a death trap.

Authorities report that minors were also in the bar, while witnesses speak of a lack of controls and insufficient security measures, including only one emergency exit.

Identification of the victims is ongoing and is difficult due to the condition of the bodies.

Among the injured are also Italian citizens.

According to the Italian Foreign Ministry, six Italians are still missing, while ten others are in hospitals in Switzerland and Italy.

Some injured have been transferred to France, Poland and Germany for specialized treatment.

Swiss authorities have warned that the toll could rise, as dozens of the injured are in critical condition, while investigations into the causes and responsibilities of the tragedy are ongoing.

The venue, which was bought by the couple in 2015 and is known for its après-ski atmosphere, can accommodate up to 400 people. It is spread over two floors: the first floor houses a café and bar with a terrace overlooking the Alps, while the underground floor, where the fire broke out, was dedicated to parties with DJs, cocktails and hookahs. According to preliminary investigations, the wood and leather materials that decorated the environment favored the spread of the flames.

Jessica Moretti was present at the bar during the incident and suffered burns to her arm, while Jacques was at one of the other bars they owned. Both have been interviewed by authorities and have provided information about the interior configuration of the bar and security measures, but are not currently suspects.

The prosecution's investigations focus on the materials used, safety equipment, exit routes and the internal organization of the premises, with suspicions of fire, murder and injury. Authorities are also verifying the exact number of people present and how the fire spread, in order to determine any criminal liability.

Le Constellation was known as a place frequented by young people and tourists, especially during après-ski activities and special evenings. The tragedy has shocked the local community and opened a debate over safety standards and materials used in similar venues.

It is also learned that the bar was one of the few in the ski resort that allowed entry to people over 16 years old, unlike most other venues where the minimum age was 18.

Meanwhile, the president of the Helvetic Confederation, Guy Parmelin, visited the scene and described the fire as "one of the worst tragedies that Switzerland has ever experienced."

He promised that the authorities will do everything to clarify the circumstances of the incident and prevent similar events in the future.

"Our prayers and thoughts are with all those affected by this tragedy. Switzerland will stand united to understand what happened and to avoid a repeat of such a tragedy," Parmelin said.

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani confirmed that 12-15 Italian citizens are hospitalized in Swiss hospitals, some in serious condition, while 16 Italians are missing. Three seriously injured will be transferred to Milan for treatment.

The local community has placed flowers and messages of condolence, while festive activities for the New Year have been cancelled.

Authorities warn that the process of identifying victims and treating the injured will take weeks, while the five days of mourning are a sign of respect and national reflection.

 


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