Summary
Swiss investigators believe that a fire at a ski resort bar was started by sparkling candles on Champagne bottles that got too close to the ceiling. The fire killed 40 people and injured 119 at the Le Constellation bar during a New Year's Eve celebration. Authorities are checking if the ceiling materials met safety standards.
Key Facts
- Investigators think sparkling candles on Champagne bottles started the fire.
- The candles create upward-shooting sparks and were common at parties.
- The fire occurred at the Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland.
- 40 people died, and 119 were injured in the fire.
- The fire broke out during a crowded New Year's Eve celebration.
- Authorities are examining the ceiling's sound-muffling materials for safety compliance.
- Many of the injured were young, aged in their teens to mid-20s.
- A memorial with candles and flowers appeared near the bar after the incident.
