The fire at a Swiss ski resort on New Year’s Day was fueled by foam soundproofing tiles that had not undergone safety testing for six years. The mayor of Crans-Montana, Nicolas Feraud, disclosed that the party venue where 40 people tragically lost their lives had not been subject to safety checks in six years.
Mayor Feraud revealed that no safety inspections had taken place at Le Constellation bar since 2019. The bar’s ceiling, adorned with soundproofing panels, likely ignited from sparklers in champagne bottles held too closely. Authorities are now investigating whether the ceiling materials and the use of candles in the bar complied with safety regulations.
Despite an external expert’s soundproofing analysis in September last year, confirming compliance with anti-noise regulations, no further checks were performed. Mayor Feraud expressed deep regret for the oversight and pledged to take responsibility for the lapse in safety inspections.
The tragic incident claimed the lives of 40 individuals, predominantly teenagers, with many others sustaining severe burns. The mayor, while acknowledging the failures, stated that he had no intention of resigning and emphasized the diligent work of the small team responsible for overseeing a vast number of buildings in the area.
The local council is now conducting a thorough examination of all venues in the vicinity to prevent similar incidents in the future. Prosecutors have initiated a criminal investigation into the bar managers, Jacques and Jessica Moretti, on charges of involuntary homicide, bodily harm, and causing a fire unintentionally.
Swiss authorities are considering further charges of arson and manslaughter by negligence if criminal liability is proven. The couple has not yet faced formal charges, and another venue managed by them has been closed by authorities. The injured individuals, totaling 116, include citizens from various countries, with the majority still receiving medical care.
The investigation continues to uncover details surrounding the tragic event, with authorities emphasizing the need for accountability and stricter safety measures to prevent such disasters in the future.