Police Identify First Four Victims of Crans-Montana Fire

Identification of the Victims

The police have confirmed the identification of the first four bodies of individuals who were killed in a fire at a bar in a Swiss ski resort on New Year's Eve. These include two Swiss women aged 21 and 16, along with two Swiss men aged 18 and 16. The bodies have been returned to their families, according to a statement from the police in the Valais canton.

Ongoing Investigations

Authorities stated that the identifications were made possible due to the "extensive" efforts of officers and the Institute of Legal Medicine, and ongoing efforts continue to identify the other victims. The fire at Le Constellation in Crans-Montana resulted in the deaths of 40 individuals and injured 119 others. The families of the victims are now facing an agonizing wait for information about those still missing.

Possible Cause of the Fire

A preliminary investigation has suggested that the probable cause of the fire was related to fireworks from champagne bottles being held too close to the ceiling. Swiss President Guy Parmelin has described this incident as "one of the most severe tragedies" faced by the country. Further details regarding the identified victims, including their names, have not yet been made public. An Italian young golfer was the first named victim, although Swiss and Italian officials have not yet confirmed his death. A helpline has been established for worried families: +41 848 112 117.