Swiss Authorities Provide Update on Deadly Crans-Montana Fire

Official Press Conference on Crans-Montana Fire

• 🎙️ Swiss authorities, including the Prosecutor General and Chief of Police, held a press conference to provide details on the deadly Crans-Montana fire.
• 🤝 The event was framed as the third conference on the dramatic events, emphasizing ongoing efforts to save lives, support families, and identify victims.

Victim Identification and Numbers

• 💔 Authorities confirmed 40 deaths and 119 injured individuals.
• 🛂 Of the injured, 113 have been formally identified, with procedures ongoing for six others.
• 🌍 Nationalities of the injured include Swiss, French, Italian, Serbian, Bosnian, Belgian, Luxembourger, Polish, and Portuguese, with 14 whose nationalities are yet to be determined.
• ⏳ Formal identification of deceased victims is a priority, utilizing international standards and involving specialists from various cantons and countries.

Investigation into the Fire's Cause

• 🔥 Preliminary investigation suggests the fire originated from candles or sparklers on champagne bottles placed too close to the ceiling, leading to a flashover.
• 📹 Evidence includes analyzed videos, witness statements from managers and survivors, and details about the bar's configuration and renovations.
• ⚖️ Follow-up investigations will examine renovations, materials used, operational authorizations, and safety measures, with potential criminal responsibility being assessed.

International Cooperation and Support

• 🌍 Significant international solidarity has been offered and accepted, including support from France and Italy.
• 🏥 Injured individuals are being transferred to specialized centers and hospitals in neighboring countries, including France and Northern Italy.
• 🤝 Specialized doctors from France have been made available to assist with transfers and care.

Healthcare and Emergency Response

• 🏥 The Valet hospital and other Swiss cantons provided extensive care, with significant support from the CHUV hospital in Lausanne.
• 🚑 OCVS emergency services, including 150 healthcare workers, psychologists, and first responders, were mobilized, utilizing 41 ambulances and 13 helicopters.
• 🧠 Emergency psychologists provided continuous support to patients, families, and responders.
• ⚠️ Patients are being stabilized and transferred to specialized burn centers, with coordination at a European level for treatment and transfers.

Community and Memorial

• 🕯️ A ceremony is planned for Friday, January 9, 2026, in Crans-Montana to commemorate the event and allow for community grieving.
• 📝 A book of condolences will be available online starting Saturday for messages of support.
• 🎗️ Flags across Switzerland and abroad will be flown at half-staff as a mark of respect.