A group of 15 young friends traveled from Milan to Crans-Montana to welcome the New Year. Their destination was Le Constellation, a popular bar among tourists and locals alike. Unfortunately, the night took a tragic turn when a fire erupted in the venue, leaving about 40 people dead and many others critically injured.
Eight from the group managed to escape the flames, but four were still missing days later. Among those unaccounted for are 16-year-olds Achille Barosi and Chiara Costanzo. Gabriele, one of the survivors, expressed the chilling randomness of fate. “It is devastating,” he said while at a makeshift memorial.
One of the first victims identified was 17-year-old Emanuele Galeppini, a golfer who lived in Dubai. His family is still waiting for DNA confirmation of his passing. Meanwhile, Charlotte Niddam, a 15-year-old from Immanuel College in the UK, is also missing, prompting her school community to rally support for her family.
Authorities revealed the fire was likely sparked by sparklers placed too close to the ceiling. Beatrice Pilloud, the local attorney general, mentioned they are investigating whether the acoustic foam on the ceiling contributed to the flames. This incident raises questions about safety regulations in public spaces.
The Valais police reported that of the 119 injured, 113 have been identified. The ages of many victims highlight a tragic loss of young lives. An Instagram account has surfaced with photos of the missing, filled with messages from friends and family searching for answers.
Families are urged to provide identifying details to hospitals as they wait anxiously for news. A mother, Laetitia Brodard-Sitre, is desperately seeking information about her son Arthur, who is still missing.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene. Ludovico, who was nearby, recounted seeing people running and flames behind them. He noted that in other clubs he frequents, the ceilings are much higher, reducing fire risks.
The community is in mourning, with a palpable sense of loss felt across Crans-Montana. Locals are grappling with the shock, recalling fond memories of Le Constellation. Dalia Gubbay, who spent decades coming to the area, shared her relief that her children chose to celebrate elsewhere.
This tragedy has brought not only grief but also heightened awareness about safety in nightlife venues. As investigations continue, many hope for answers and healing in the weeks to come.
For more on fire safety regulations, you can visit the National Fire Protection Association.
