A makeshift memorial for victims of a deadly Swiss bar fire caught fire itself, likely due to unattended candles, damaging tributes but sparing a condolence book.
CRANS-MONTANA: A memorial erected for the 41 victims of a New Year’s bar fire in Switzerland was itself destroyed by flames early Sunday. Police believe the blaze was likely sparked by candles left burning inside the makeshift tribute.
The memorial, laden with flowers and messages near the Le Constellation bar site, caught fire shortly before 6:00 am. It honoured those killed and 115 injured in the January 1 inferno at the ski resort bar.
Regional police confirmed no one was injured in this new fire. They stated emergency services quickly brought the flames under control.
“Several commemorative objects were damaged by the flames,” police said. A large book of remembrance filled with condolences was saved from the blaze.
An investigation has been opened, though police said “third-party involvement can be ruled out”. Initial reports suggest the fire started near candles on a central table.
The memorial had recently been moved from directly in front of the burned-out bar. Family members of victims expressed consternation upon learning of the new fire.
“What to say?” posted Laetitia Brodard-Sitre, who lost her 16-year-old son. She stated “It is the municipality’s responsibility to ensure a memorial that is secure”.
The January bar fire is believed to have started when champagne sparklers ignited ceiling foam. The bar’s owners face charges including manslaughter by negligence.
Local safety officials are also under investigation, as the bar had not undergone mandatory annual fire inspections since 2019.
