Swiss police have confirmed the identification of all 40 victims who lost their lives in a devastating fire at a bar in the ski resort town of Crans-Montana on New Year’s Eve. The victims ranged in age from 14 to 39 years, with 15 of them under the age of 18, underscoring the scale of the tragedy that struck a young crowd celebrating the new year.

The deceased included nationals from Switzerland, Italy, Romania, Turkey, Portugal, France, Belgium, the United Kingdom, and Israel. In addition to the fatalities, 119 people were injured in the blaze, many suffering severe burns. Authorities said six injured victims remain unidentified due to the extent of their injuries.

A preliminary investigation has found that sparklers attached to bottles and held too close to the ceiling were the likely cause of the fire. Investigators are also examining whether acoustic foam installed on the bar’s ceiling may have accelerated the spread of flames and whether it complied with safety regulations.

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Prosecutors in the Valais region have launched a criminal investigation into the French couple who managed the bar, Le Constellation. They are suspected of manslaughter by negligence, bodily harm by negligence, and arson by negligence, as authorities assess responsibility for the deadly incident.

Police have said no further personal details about the victims will be released out of respect for grieving families. However, several relatives have publicly confirmed losses, including parents who described days of anguish while loved ones were missing. The bar was known to be popular with young people, particularly as the local drinking age is 16.

The tragedy has sent shockwaves across Europe, with tributes pouring in from governments, schools, and sports organisations. Officials have reiterated the need for strict enforcement of fire safety norms at entertainment venues, as the investigation continues to determine how a celebration turned into one of Switzerland’s deadliest nightlife disasters.

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