Swiss Alpine Bar Fire Death Toll Rises to 41 After Teen Succumbs to Injuries

Death Toll Climbs in Crans-Montana Bar Tragedy

The death toll from the catastrophic New Year's Day fire at the Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, Valais, Switzerland, has tragically risen to 41. An 18-year-old Swiss national succumbed to injuries on January 31, 2026, at a hospital in Zurich, approximately a month after the incident. The blaze, which erupted during New Year celebrations, also left 116 people injured, with many suffering severe burns.

Details of the Devastating Blaze

The fire broke out at approximately 01:26 CET on January 1, 2026, at the popular Alpine bar. Initial reports indicated around 40 fatalities and 115 injured, figures that were later revised. The majority of the victims were young, with ages ranging from 14 to 39 years, and half of those who died were under the age of 18. Several foreign tourists were also among the casualties.

Investigators believe the fire was likely ignited when lit sparklers attached to champagne bottles came into contact with acoustic foam or soundproofing material on the bar's ceiling. Witnesses described people screaming as flames rapidly spread through the venue. The intensity of the fire and toxic smoke quickly overwhelmed the crowded space.

Widespread Injuries and Medical Response

Of the 116 individuals injured, 83 sustained severe burns, with some victims suffering burns over more than 60 percent of their bodies. The sheer number of severe cases quickly overwhelmed intensive care units in Valais, necessitating the transfer of patients to hospitals across Switzerland and other European countries. A month after the fire, around 70 people remained hospitalized with severe burns.

Emergency services responded rapidly, utilizing helicopters to transport critically injured individuals to specialized burn centers. A national day of mourning was observed on January 9, 2026, in memory of the victims.

Ongoing Investigation and Calls for Justice

A criminal investigation has been launched against the bar's owners, Jacques and Jessica Moretti, on charges of manslaughter by negligence. Concerns have been raised regarding potential fire safety deficiencies, including allegations that emergency exits may have been blocked or poorly marked. Furthermore, it has been reported that the venue had not undergone official fire safety inspections for five years prior to the incident. The public prosecutor's office has stated that no further information on the status of the investigation will be provided at this time.

The tragedy has sparked protests, with hundreds of demonstrators marching in Lausanne demanding accountability and justice for the victims and their families. Families of the deceased have expressed profound grief and anger, questioning how such a disaster could have occurred.