Hundreds of mourners gathered in the Swiss Alpine resort of Crans-Montana on Sunday to honour the victims of a devastating New Year’s Eve fire that claimed 40 lives and left dozens seriously injured.
The tragedy occurred at the crowded Le Constellation bar, transforming a night meant for celebration into one of Switzerland’s deadliest recent disasters.
The day of remembrance began with an hour-long Mass at the Chapelle Saint-Christophe, where families, friends and local residents came together in silence and prayer.
During the service, a message of condolence from Pope Leo XIV was read aloud, offering comfort to those affected by the tragedy.
“The pontiff joins us in our sorrow through moving words and wishes to express his compassion and care for the families and to support those who are suffering,” said Bishop of Sion Jean-Marie Lovey.
He added that the scale of the loss had deeply shaken not only the local community but the entire country.
After the Mass, participants exited the chapel to the sound of the organ and formed a silent march up the hill toward the Le Constellation bar, the site of the fire. Many carried candles or flowers, while others walked arm in arm, visibly overcome with grief.
During the service, Father Gilles Cavin spoke of the anguish endured by families still awaiting news. He described the “terrible uncertainty” faced by relatives who do not yet know whether their loved ones are among the dead or injured.
“We pray for their friends, so deeply affected by the tragedy on what should have been a day of celebration and togetherness,” he said.
Swiss authorities confirmed on Sunday that 24 of the 40 victims have now been formally identified, following the identification of 16 additional bodies. The Valais cantonal police reported that 121 people were injured in the blaze, many suffering severe burns and smoke inhalation.
Most of the victims were aged between 13 and 25, underscoring the youth of those caught in the fire.
The identified bodies have been returned to families, while the search continues for three Italian nationals still reported missing. The scale of the tragedy has prompted an international medical response, with victims transferred to hospitals across Europe.
French Health Minister Stéphanie Rist said 17 patients were treated in France, part of 35 transferred to five European countries, with further transfers planned to Germany, Italy and Belgium.
Meanwhile, Swiss prosecutors have opened a criminal investigation into the bar’s managers, who are suspected of involuntary manslaughter, intentional bodily harm and arson.
Investigators believe sparklers placed on champagne bottles may have ignited the fire after coming into contact with the ceiling of the packed venue. Authorities are examining whether the ceiling insulation met safety regulations and whether the use of sparklers was authorised.
Swiss President Guy Parmelin has declared 9 January a national day of mourning. At 2 pm, church bells will ring across Switzerland for a minute’s silence, as the nation pauses to remember the victims of a tragedy that has left an indelible mark on the country.