Devastating Fire at Swiss Bar Claims 40 Lives, Sparklers Suspected

Early Thursday, a horrific fire erupted in a crowded ski bar in Crans-Montana, a popular Swiss Alpine destination, leaving 40 people dead and many others with critical injuries. Initial investigations suggest that the fire was ignited by sparklers being waved near a foam-covered low ceiling.

Videos taken by patrons showed sparklers in champagne bottles being brandished close to the easily ignitable foam, which rapidly caught flames. Many inside the basement bar, oblivious to the growing fire, continued their celebrations, unaware of the lurking danger.

Chaos ensued as the fire spread, with frantic efforts made to escape. Footage depicted desperate individuals trying to break windows and flee, while some of those injured were seen racing into the streets for assistance.

Authorities reported that of the 119 survivors, a majority were in critical condition, suffering severe burns and smoke inhalation. Local medical facilities quickly became overwhelmed, necessitating the transfer of numerous patients to specialized burn units across neighboring countries.

Jacques Moretti, the bar owner since 2015, claimed all safety protocols were adhered to. Yet, investigators are scrutinizing whether safety regulations were correctly enforced.

The exact number of patrons present during the fire remains unknown; the bar had a legal capacity of 300 indoors and an additional 40 on the terrace. Among the deceased are individuals from Switzerland, France, Italy, Serbia, Belgium, among others. Efforts to identify the victims continue.

The community of Crans-Montana is in deep mourning following this tragedy. Eyewitnesses recounted heart-wrenching scenes of those severely burned and crying for help, describing the incident as a devastating blow to the resort area. Authorities have cautioned that the complete identification process may take several days, as families anxiously wait for news.