Crans-montana fire death toll rises to 41 after victim dies from injuries

Sunday 01 February 2026 - 13:40

By: Sahili Aya

Crans-montana fire death toll rises to 41 after victim dies from injuries

The death toll from the devastating fire that struck the Le Constellation bar in the Swiss resort town of Crans-Montana has risen to 41, following the death of a young victim who had been hospitalized since the tragedy.

Authorities in the canton of Valais confirmed that an 18-year-old Swiss national succumbed to his injuries on January 31 at a hospital in Zurich, nearly one month after the blaze that erupted during New Year’s celebrations. The tragedy has now left 115 people injured.

Several dozen victims, many of them in critical condition, remain hospitalized in Switzerland and in neighboring European countries, including France, Germany, Italy and Belgium. The deceased, aged between 14 and 39, include 23 Swiss nationals — one of whom also held French citizenship — and 18 foreign nationals from various European countries.

According to preliminary findings, the fire was triggered by sparks from decorative “fountain candles” that ignited soundproofing foam on the ceiling of the venue’s basement. The bar was particularly popular among teenagers and young adults.

A judicial investigation is ongoing to determine whether safety regulations were respected. The French couple who own the establishment are under investigation for negligent manslaughter, negligent bodily harm and negligent arson. In addition, two municipal safety officials are also being investigated after admitting failures in carrying out mandatory fire safety inspections since 2019.