Dozens killed in Swiss bar blaze, sparklers cited as possible cause

Shiva K Dhakal
National Press Corporation(NPC)
United Kingdom—Swiss officials investigating a deadly bar fire at a popular ski resort say the blaze was likely started by sparklers attached to champagne bottles that ignited material close to the ceiling.

The fire broke out at a bar in the canton of Valais, killing 40 people and injuring 119 others, making it one of the deadliest incidents of its kind in Switzerland in recent years.

Valais attorney general Beatrice Pilloud said investigators believe the sparklers were a probable cause, but stressed that “several hypotheses” remain under investigation and the exact origin of the fire has yet to be formally confirmed.

Authorities say 113 of the injured have been formally identified, including 71 Swiss nationals, 14 French citizens and 11 Italians. The process of identifying those who died is still ongoing.

Mathias Reynard, president of the Valais regional government, acknowledged the anguish faced by families waiting for answers.

“Each minute that passes without answers is unbearable for the relatives of the victims,” he said.

Medical teams across Switzerland continue to treat survivors, many of whom suffered severe burns and smoke inhalation. A doctor in Geneva confirmed that patients as young as 15 are among those receiving specialist burn treatment.

Emergency services have praised the rapid response of firefighters and medical staff, but officials say the focus remains on supporting victims, identifying the deceased, and determining the precise circumstances that led to the tragedy.