Deadly Swiss Resort Fire Likely Triggered by Bengal Lights, Investigators Say

Swiss authorities investigating the devastating New Year’s Eve fire at a popular bar in the alpine resort of Crans-Montana have said early findings suggest the blaze was likely triggered by sparkler-style party candles, commonly known as Bengal lights. The fire, which broke out during celebrations at the Le Constellation, has left at least 47 people dead and more than 100 injured, many of them critically.

According to investigators, the fire is believed to have started when fountain candles attached to champagne bottles were brought too close to the bar’s ceiling. Officials said the flames spread with alarming speed, overwhelming patrons inside the crowded venue. While this hypothesis appears to be the most likely cause, authorities cautioned that the investigation is still ongoing and the exact trigger has not yet been formally confirmed.

Prosecutors are also examining whether insulation materials used in the ceiling contributed to the rapid spread and intensity of the fire. If such materials are found to have played a role, the incident could raise serious questions about safety standards in nightlife venues. Investigators have indicated that further inquiries will determine whether negligence was involved and whether criminal liability may be established.

The scale of the tragedy has complicated rescue and identification efforts. Swiss officials said identifying all victims will take considerable time due to the severity of burn injuries. Many of the injured remain in critical condition, and several are still fighting for their lives. Around 50 people have either been transferred or are scheduled to be moved to specialised burn units in hospitals across Europe, including facilities in Germany and France, to receive advanced medical care.

Police confirmed that more than 110 injured individuals have been identified so far, representing multiple nationalities. The victims include Swiss citizens as well as people from France, Italy, Serbia, and several other European countries. Authorities stressed that casualty figures may change as investigations continue and as hospitals provide updated information.

Survivors have described scenes of chaos and panic as smoke and flames engulfed the bar. One witness who was in the basement where the fire reportedly began said visibility dropped almost instantly. He recounted shielding himself from the flames by overturning a table and later breaking a window to escape, as exits quickly became overcrowded.

The tragedy has drawn international attention after the first victim to be publicly identified was confirmed to be a 16-year-old Italian international golfer based in Dubai. Sporting bodies and communities across Europe have expressed grief, describing him as a young athlete with promise and strong values.

In the aftermath, families and friends of those still missing gathered near the sealed-off site, anxiously seeking information. Several foreign embassies are working closely with Swiss authorities to trace their nationals who may have been inside the bar at the time of the fire. Makeshift memorials have appeared outside the venue, with residents and visitors leaving flowers and lighting candles in remembrance.

As Switzerland mourns one of its deadliest nightlife disasters in recent years, the incident has sparked renewed debate over fire safety, crowd management, and the use of pyrotechnic party accessories in enclosed public spaces.