Swiss authorities have revealed that Le Constellation bar in the Alpine resort of Crans-Montana had not undergone any fire safety inspections since 2019, raising serious questions following the tragic New Year’s Eve fire that killed 40 people.

Fire Safety Negligence at Le Constellation

At a news conference on Tuesday, Crans-Montana Mayor Nicolas Feraud confirmed that no safety inspections were conducted at the ski bar between 2020 and 2025.

“Periodic inspections were not conducted between 2020 and 2025. We bitterly regret this,” Feraud said, emphasizing the lapse in safety oversight.

Authorities now face criticism over the failure to ensure compliance with basic fire safety regulations at the popular ski destination.

The Devastating Fire

The fire broke out early on New Year’s Day during celebrations at the bar. Most of the victims were teenagers, including:

• The youngest: a 14-year-old Swiss girl
• Two 15-year-old Swiss girls
• The oldest: a 39-year-old French national

In total, 116 people were injured, and 83 remain hospitalized, some with severe burns.

Investigators believe the blaze was triggered when revelers raised champagne bottles with lit sparklers, which ignited sound-insulating foam on the bar’s basement ceiling. The foam had been considered safe during the last safety inspection in 2019.

Immediate Measures and Safety Changes

Following the tragedy, local authorities have implemented several measures:

• Ban on sparkler candles in all bars and clubs in Crans-Montana
• Engagement of an external agency to inspect all public establishments in the resort
• Ongoing investigation into the two bar operators for potential crimes, including homicide by negligence

Police indicated that, as of Sunday, the circumstances did not justify arrest, and the operators were not considered a flight risk.

Community Impact

The fire has sent shockwaves through the local community and beyond, highlighting the importance of strict fire safety enforcement in crowded venues. Families, especially those of young victims, continue to mourn, and authorities have emphasized the need for enhanced oversight to prevent future tragedies.